Having too much belly fat doesn't just make you feel uncomfortable in your own skin. It also could be an indicator that you're at risk for serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke or diabetes. But it's not too late. There are things you can do to lose weight quickly. Besides taking on a healthier diet that's low in fat and calories, you can perform exercises that help you shed fat from your belly and tone your underlying muscles, to give your abs a slim and trim look.
Step 1
Participate in cardiovascular activity five times a week, suggests the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least 30 minutes per session is recommended to improve heart health and to help you burn calories. When combined with a low calorie diet, you should be able to burn fat from your belly and the rest of your body, with a dedicated routine. Practice activities you enjoy, like biking, walking or jogging.
Step 2
Build muscle mass to burn more calories. Strength training exercises like weightlifting, pushups and sit-ups can help you build muscle and tone your body. As an added benefit, increased muscle mass results in a higher metabolism, meaning you'll burn more calories throughout the day, and so lose even more belly fat. Commit to a routine that includes at least 12 repetitions of eight exercises twice a week, suggests the American College of Sports Medicine.
Step 3
Do targeted abdominal exercises at least three times a week. Though there's no such thing as spot reduction, toning your abdominal muscles can make your belly look flatter and give you a toned look as soon as you lose the fat. Do a combination of sit-ups, crunches, pelvic lifts, leg lifts and even Pilates, to tighten your abs.
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