The Miracle Muffin Top Workout
We don't like that phrase, either, but we dislike the phenomenon it refers to even more. Trim your midsection by adding these expert-recommended moves to your regular workouts.
By Corrie Pikul
Photo: Courtesy of Andrew Meade Photography
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Unilateral Dumbbell Dead-Lift
One study compared isometric exercises where you contract a muscle with no movement—similar to the standard plank—to strength exercises, like the deadlift. "The deadlift was the clear winner because it activated the trunk 60 percent more than the other exercises," Montenegro says. Here's her ab-tacular version of the classic weight move.
1. Stand with your feet together. Hold one dumbbell in your right hand and let it hang at your side.
2. Keeping the core pulled tight, lean forward, lifting your right leg (same side of the body that's holding the weight) and lower the dumbbell toward the ground.
3. Bring the dumbbell down as low as you can while concentrating on keeping your back straight, core engaged, chest up and neck aligned with the spine. Keep the arm holding the dumbbell close to your body to avoid unnecessary pressure on the back.
4. Hold for 1 count.
5. Tighten your core even more, lower the right leg, and return to standing tall.
6. Do 6 reps, then hold the dumbbell in your left hand and repeat with your left leg, for a total of 12 reps
Published 08/13/2013
