Tips on toning up your belly and getting rid of that pesky belly fat that just will not go away.
As a personal trainer I am frequently asked, “What’s the best way to lose belly fat?” Or sometimes I’m told, “I have been doing lots and lots of sit-ups and crunches but I don’t seem to be losing my belly.”
Sound familiar? Well, you’re not alone.
Underneath that layer of fat there are muscles and yes we do need to work those muscles by doing sit-ups, crunches and other abdominal exercises because a higher muscle content means we burn body fat more efficiently. But it is a common fitness misconception that you can get rid of belly fat by working your stomach muscles. The fact is that you cannot spot reduce. It would be great if we could, but that is not how our bodies are made.
In fact most people don’t realize that your heart rate needs to be elevated in order to burn fat and firm up that belly. You cannot decide where your body gets rid of fat. So, if you are trying to reduce the fat on your belly then remember that the secret is to get moving.
Keep doing those crunches but you will also need to find a cardiovascular exercise that you enjoy. Whatever you choose to do such as running, fast walking, hiking, biking a group fit class or swimming the key is to do it consistently!
Remember, if you are already doing cardiovascular exercises then you need to pick it up a notch. Do something different or try adding intervals into your workout by picking up your pace for a minute every three minutes or so.
Whatever you choose to do, you must change it regularly to reactivate your metabolism. When you do something new, you hit those muscles at a different angle and they react to that change. If you're consistent with your workout, eat properly, get ample rest, drink plenty of water and you really challenge yourself then you can expect to see some results. How soon? That depends on many variables such as your metabolic rate, how much or little you do and at what intensity, and just how well you are eating... just to name a few.
Switch it up. Make it fun and enjoy the variety as you watch your belly fat melt away!
Turn your goals into accomplishments. Start today and make this your year!
