Belly Fat and Other Blessings

I am frequently asked by clients: “What exercises will give me washboard abs?” OK-most are NOT asking for washboard or even six-pack abs, it’s more like: “What exercises will get rid of this fat around my middle?” 

I know from experience that many are expecting me to tell them to do things like sit-ups, crunches, planks, etc. but I tell them, “none of the above”! It’s all about the cardio-meaning getting your heart rate up to burn off the jelly-belly. I WILL get back to those beloved planks, tho, the multi-vitamin of exercise :) 

The truth is, no matter how “tight” your abs are, if they are covered up by all that fat, well…..they are covered up by all that fat. I know- sounds so harsh, but it’s the truth!  :/

So the first thing we need to do is look at your cardio-meaning walking, running, elliptical-ing, cycling, swimming and more-the options are limitless! But you better find something you like-or at least don’t hate-because beyond the six-pack abs thing, cardiovascular exercise will improve-if not eliminate-many ailments! Heart disease, strokes, memory loss, diabetes, stress!! And more!

Every day the medical community comes out with new study results showing yet another illness that can be managed by moderate exercise! OK... I will get off my “soapbox” because this post is about awesome looking abdominals!!

Here’s what I ask my clients:

• How often are you doing your cardio?  (A minimum of 3 times per week-try for 4-5 and mix it up-walk one day, cycle the next…)
• How long are you doing it? (30 minutes is ok if that’s all you are able to do or that’s all you have time for but 45-60 minutes is better)
• How hard are you working? (You should be sweating; finding it somewhat difficult to chat with friends; actually feel like you are working hard. If you really don’t know if you are working hard enough, ask me or another professional, to help you figure out what your target heart rate is. Or buy a heart rate monitor-there are lots of affordable monitors out there that will do the job! 

What you eat (and drink) is another key component to reducing those “love handles” (love?) Check back for my next posting  “You Are What You Eat”

Last of all, there is something you need to know. This is a simplified version of “My Guide to Belly Fat”! There is soooo much information, I could write a big fat book about it! Hmm….now there’s a thought    :)

 Working with clients I try to make good health user-friendly and I don’t feel the need to impress anyone by using my “smart” fitness words :) Most likely, if you are reading this-and find it interesting-then you are the average person and I truly hope you learned something new today!! And if you are a professional, then you already know what to do!