Want to Take Inches Off Your Waist? Do These Exercises
One of the most physically attractive features of the female figure is her waist, and we all want a defined, slim waist. Unfortunately, it’s also a part of the body that likes to accumulate fat, especially if you have a genetic tendency towards it.
The thing is that it doesn’t just affect your appearance, it also increases your likelihood of cardiovascular diseases and other conditions. Therefore it goes beyond vanity; the necessity to take inches off your waist and burn fat is about your health.
While it’s a good idea to adopt a healthy diet and do cardio regularly, we also recommend doing some specific exercises to shrink this common problem area. They help you get rid of those unsightly “rolls” more easily and, as if that weren’t enough, they help tone your muscles to prevent flabbiness.
Here, we’ll share with you some easy exercises you can even do from the comfort of your own home.
Leg lifts
Leg lifts don’t just help define your waist, but also are great for your hip muscles.
Check this out too: 5 Pilates Exercises to Reduce Waist and Hips
How do I do it?
- Lay out a yoga mat, kneel with your arms on the ground (on all fours), then extend your right leg back.
- Hold for a few seconds, return to your starting position, and do 15 to 20 repetitions with each leg.
Hip raises
This position, also known as the bridge or pelvis raises, tones your abdominal muscles, shapes your waist, and helps make your core stronger.
How do I do it?
- Firstly, on a yoga or exercise mat, lay face up with your legs bent and arms at your side.
- Next, lift your hips toward the ceiling and hold the position for 15 seconds.
- Then, return to your starting position. Rest for 20 seconds and do 4 repetitions.
Leg circles
This simple exercise works your waist area, tones your hips, and helps improve your coordination.
How do I do it?
- Firstly, lying face up with your legs extended and arms at your side, lift one leg to a medium height.
- Then, with your raised leg, make circular movements in both directions.
- Lower your leg to the floor and do the same thing with your other leg.
- Do 15 to 20 repetitions.
Oblique abs to slim your waist
This simple activity is very good at slimming your waist and toning your abdomen. Ideally, you can use weights to increase the intensity.
How do I do it?
- Firstly, sit on a mat and hold a weight with your arms stretched out and legs bent.
- Make sure your feet are on the floor and your back is straight, then lean back to a 45-degree angle.
- Next, twist at the waist to the right and then the left.
- Repeat this movement 12 to 15 times and then rest.
Side lunges
Side lunges are good for your legs, abs, and waist. They will strengthen your legs and core and improve your balance. We advise adding some weight to help you burn fat while you tone.
How do I do it?
- Firstly, stand straight, feet together, and lunge to one side, bending your knee to form a 90 degree angle.
- Then, bring your leg back to its starting position and repeat the movement with your other leg.
- Do between 8 and 10 repetitions, alternating legs.
We recommend reading: 10 Simple Ways to Burn Fat throughout Your Day
Lunges
Lunges are often found in exercise routines for your legs, abdomen, and glutes. More importantly, they can considerably increase your calorie burning, since they require balance and physical strength. Lunges are recommended to help get rid of your “muffin top” and accumulated fat around your hips.
How do I do it?
- Firstly, stand straight with your legs shoulder-width apart and hold a pair of dumbells.
- Then, step forward and bend your knee to make a 90 degree angle. Don’t let your knee touch the floor.
- At the same time, extend your arms up and twist to make a 90 degree angle.
- Finally, return to your starting position and do the same movement with your other leg.
- Repeat 10 times, alternating sides.
Finally, remember that a slim, toned waist is the result of consistent effort and dedication. It’s essential to do these exercises every day and, of course, watch your fat and calorie intake to see great results.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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