What is the origin of the term love handles?

It is term that is used when describing the flabby bits of flesh on the hips and the sides of the abdomen. The term has been used to refer to them affectionately as handles for a lover to hold on to. The anatomical name for this part of the body is the "obliques". Unfortunately, 'love handles' have become an increasing problem for many people, particularly men. It is really a pleasant way of referring to what are, essentially, fatty deposits.

This particular area of the body can sometimes be ignored when it comes to tackling an exercise regime. For many people, it doesn't seem to matter how many abdominal exercises they do, the 'love handles' never seem to disappear! Many companies use this as an effective marketing gimmick to get people to buy fancy gadgets or machines. Yet body builders have been getting great results for along time without the use of these types of fancy gadgets. Attempts at spot toning are unlikely to succeed as it is about looking at all of the body and the metabolism required to burn off the fat.

So what is the solution? It seems that everyone already knows the sorts of things to do, and are still looking for a quick fix or an easy answer. It does seem that some methods are easier than others. Look for methods or programs that teach how to exercise the whole body and that include exercise which target the obliques, and don't just include the standard abdominal exercises which don't seem to help this part of your body much at all. Look for methods or programs which give advice about diet and water intake. Then take it!