Exercises for that double chin

DOUBLE chins are as common as they are embarrassing. They are most frequently seen in obese or older women, but they may also be influenced by a number of other contributing factors such as genetics, posture and diet. If your double chin is getting in the way of your confidence or your perfect selfie and you want to go about ridding yourself of the unsightly lump of fat or drooping skin without having to resort to cosmetic surgery, then personal trainer and fitness expert Gisel Harrow has the perfect combination of targeted exercises just for you.

“A double chin is a common condition that occurs when a layer of fat forms below your chin. A double chin is often associated with weight gain, but you don’t have to be overweight to have one. Genetics or looser skin resulting from ageing may also cause a double chin,” Harrow said.

She notes that while the fat in this area tends to be quite stubborn, targeted exercise focusing on the muscles of the neck and face are almost guaranteed to get the job done.

“When you work the face and neck muscles you could help burn fat in these areas which will be a large part of getting rid of your double chin. Exercising these muscles can also help with toning loose skin,” Harrow advised.

To help get rid of or reduce the appearance of a double chin, Harrow shares some exercises that target the fat under the chin and neck.

Ball exercise

Place a small ball under your chin. Now press your chin down against the ball and hold 10 seconds, then release and repeat 25 times daily.

Tongue stretches

Looking straight ahead, stick your tongue out as far as you can. Then, lift your tongue upwards towards your nose. Hold for 10 seconds and release. Repeat this throughout the day as many times as you can.

Neck stretches

Tilt your head backwards and look at the ceiling. Then press your tongue against the roof of your mouth and hold for five to 10 seconds then release. Repeat this throughout the day as many times as you can.

Chew and chew some more

Stand with head and shoulders facing forward; now turn your chin until you are looking to your left. Pretend you are chewing on gum or if you have some you may chew on it. Do this for 20 repetitions, then turn your face forward again, then to the right this time, and repeat the chewing motion. For best results, do this several times throughout the day.

Tongue press

For this exercise open your mouth and press your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Tilt your head back and forth to get rid of the excess fat in your jaws.

Pigeon face

Hold either side of your lower jaw below the ears with your thumbs and index fingers. Now tilt your head forward so that there is some amount of pressure and/or strain on the muscles of your chin. Hold each time for about five seconds of at least three sets. Do several repetitions of these throughout the day.

Harrow said that while getting rid of the double chin may be your main focus, you should also try to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical exercise a few times weekly. Physical exercise will also help with your overall weight loss, including your chin. For best results, she says that this should always be in combination with a balanced diet and plenty of water.