Eliminating belly fat is one of the most common reasons why people are motivated to workout. Fat in the belly not only makes you feel self-conscious but can also contribute to such health problems as heart disease and poor posture. As you lose weight, your stomach is one of the first places to shed inches. However, once you are in a regular workout routine, you may find that your midsection still looks flabby. Core-related workouts, such as Pilates, are essential to strengthen your body and to help keep belly fat at bay.
Function
Pilates is designed to target your abdominal muscles and lower back, an area of the body also known as the core. This type of workout helps strengthen your stomach, back and pelvis. Although inner-strength training is the primary goal of Pilates, this type of workout is often sought by people who are looking to get rid of belly fat.
Benefits
Over time, pilates may help tone your stomach. According to the American Council on Exercise, or ACE, core training helps prevent back injuries and improve your posture, and it can even help treat preexisting lower back pain. Plus, a strong core improves overall athleticism. Core training through Pilates can also give you confidence as you strengthen your midsection. Fitness Magazine points out that Pilates is a solution for people who are bored with their regular workout routine, because it poses a new set of challenges.
Equipment
Because Pilates is conducted on the floor, very little equipment is needed but a mat. A medicine ball or stability ball may be used in order to prevent back injury. Home systems that attach to your wall can also be purchased online or from sporting goods stores. Although such equipment may make Pilates exercises seem easier to conduct, they are not required. For added resistance, you can use light dumbbells. The most pertinent part of doing Pilates is making sure you are in proper form.
Types of Exercises
The plank is a common Pilates move that CBS News touts as a fat-burning exercise. Crunches on a medicine ball are often used as well. The difference between a basic quick sit-up and a Pilates crunch is that you consistently pull your stomach in through each movement and perform it slowly in three counts. There are also cardio-Pilates combination workouts for an added challenge. An example is Crunch Fitness's Cardio Pilates.
Considerations
Doing Pilates alone will not get rid of belly fat. You may see results at first, but they will not last unless you give your total body a makeover in the process. The ACE recommends that you engage in regular cardiovascular workouts, build muscle throughout your body and eat well. CBS News cautions against extra sugar and processed foods and recommends that you instead eat fiber-rich alternatives in small meals throughout the day. Eating every few hours will keep you satisfied and prevent possible binge-eating.
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