When it comes to getting rid of troublesome side fat, it takes dedication and commitment. But with the right workouts, you can start seeing real results. Whether you’re looking for pilates-based exercises or HIIT-style workouts, these top moves will help you get that side fat ditched for good.
One of the best exercises to target those bulging sides is a side lunge. This simple move helps strengthen the hip and core muscles, and start to shape the sides. To do the side lunge, stand tall with your arms on your hips. Take a wide step to the side with your right leg, and then squat down into the right side. Push off your right foot to rise back up and return to the start. Do this move for 20-30 reps, and then repeat it on the other side.
Another great move to burn fat and tone the sides is a plank up. Starting in a plank position with your arms and legs extended, engage your core by drawing your belly button in towards your spine. Simultaneously lift your left arm up towards the ceiling and your right leg out behind you. Hold for a few seconds, and then return to the start. Repeat the move on the opposite side, and do this exercise for 30-40 reps.
The bicycle crunch is also an effective move to target side fat. Lying on your back, bring your knees to your chest while engaging your core and keeping your back straight. Extend your left leg out and twist your upper body so that your right elbow reaches to touch the left knee. Switch sides, extending your right leg out and bringing your left elbow to the right knee. Repeat this move for 30-50 reps to really target those hard-to-reach side fat areas.
For a high intensity move that gives you maximum results, burpees with twist are the way forward! Start in a standing position, and then lower into a squat. From there, kick your feet back into a plank position and lower your chest down to the ground. Push back up, jump your feet in towards your hands, and then jump straight up. As you land, twist your body to the side and raise your arms overhead. Repeat the move on the opposite side and do 10-15 reps for a comprehensive side fat-busting sequence.
To increase strength and shape the sides, try adding in side planks into your routine. Begin by laying on your right side and propping yourself up on your right elbow, shoulder, and hip. Raise yourself so that your body is in a straight line from head to toe and make sure your left foot is stacked on top of the right one. Hold the move for 30-60 seconds and then switch sides. Doing this move regularly will help tone your oblique muscles, reduce side fat, and give you a tighter, more toned look all-over.
Finally, a great way to ditch side fat is to perform twist crunches. Start by lying flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat. Place your hands behind your ears and rotate your shoulders so that your left elbow reaches towards the right knee. Bring your right elbow to the left knee and switch sides. Make sure to tuck the chin slightly and keep your abs engaged while doing this move. Doing this exercise for 40-60 reps will help you get rid of those pesky side fat pockets in no time.
Adding in consistent workouts that target the sides is key to banishing side fat. But being aware of your diet is also essential for long-term results. As well as eating healthy, whole foods and eliminating processed or refined food items, make sure you also drink plenty of water and get enough rest. Doing this will ensure that your body can get the nourishment it needs and keep your metabolism running smoothly.
To keep losing side fat and maintain your results, it’s also important to set some goals. Whether it’s increasing the intensity of your workouts, hitting a certain number of reps or tracking your progress, setting realistic goals will help keep you motivated and focused on reaching your desired outcome.
There are also plenty of cardio exercises to help you ditch side fat. Try adding in a few HIIT sessions, incorporating power walking or jogging into your routine, and hitting the treadmill or elliptical machine. Doing yoga or taking part in an aerobic class are also great options for boosting cardio and losing side fat effectively.
When it comes to strength and shaping, weight-based exercises are a necessity. Use dumbbells, resistance bands or kettlebells to tone your obliques and work the sides. This will help to sculpt and strengthen those tough-to-target areas and get rid of stubborn side fat for good.
Finally, don’t forget to incorporate some stretching into your routine. Gentle yoga can help to lengthen the muscles, improve flexibility and burn fat more efficiently. Hamstring stretches, lunges and downward facing dog are all great exercises to target those hard-to-reach sides. Plus, stretching for a few minutes each day can help to reduce post-workout soreness and increase your range of motion.
With these top workouts, you can get rid of side fat for good. Try adding in these exercises into your regular routine and soon, you’ll see and feel the results. So why wait? Get ditching those sides today and start transforming your body for the better.