3 Simple Moves to Trim Your Waist

These steps couldn't be simpler — all you'll need is a dumbbell. We recommend a 5- to 8-pounder. For best results, repeat this routine three times through, twice a week.

Move #1: Wood Chop

Works abs, obliques, arms, butt, and thighs

Hold a weight with both hands. Squat and bring weight down and to outside of right knee (as shown, left). Rotate torso to left, bringing weight diagonally above left shoulder (as shown, right). Reverse movement to return to start for one rep. Do 10 reps; switch sides and repeat. While doing, remember that your arms are just along for the ride. Focus on initiating the rotation from your torso and abs.

Move #2: Twister

Works abs, obliques, and arms

Sit with knees bent, heels down and toes lifted. Hold weight with both hands extended in line with chest. Lean back so torso is at a 45-degree angle. Brace core and rotate to left as far as you can (as shown). Pause, then twist to right. That's one rep; do 10. To protect your neck while doing, imagine that you're holding an apple between your chin and your chest.

Move #3: Plank Plus

Works abs, obliques, back, and shoulders

Start on right side with legs straight and prop upper body up on right elbow and forearm; bring left hand to hip. Raise hips so body forms a straight line from ankles to shoulders (as shown). Bring left knee to chest, then extend leg and lower to start for one rep. Do 10 reps. Switch sides; repeat. When getting started, practice lowering and lifting into side plank first, then add the knee bend.

This story originally appeared in the June 2016 issue of Good Housekeeping.