Purpose
Side bends are used to target the oblique muscles of your core. This will target the area known as the “love handle.”
Execution
Stand upright and hold a dumbbell in your right hand; allow your arm to hang naturally to your side with your palm facing in. Place your left hand on your left hip. Your feet should be shoulder width apart, and make sure to keep your back straight throughout this entire movement. Begin the movement by bending your right side and lowering the dumbbell as far as you can. Now, return to the starting position by squeezing your ab muscles. Make sure to bend only at the waist and do not move your hips. Repeat this movement until your set is complete.
Variation
This exercise can also be done with a barbell; place the bar across your back and then perform the exercise the same as described above. Start with a very light barbell, because a bar may put more stress on your lower back.