What Can I Do at the Gym to Lose Belly Fat?

What Can I Do at the Gym to Lose Belly Fat?
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If you like to go to the gym on a regular basis, you don't have to stick to the same routine over and over again. In fact, you can perform exercises that target your belly fat. And soon, you'll lose weight and end up with a slim and trim tummy just in time for summer. Just be sure to discuss your fitness plans with your doctor before starting a new program.

Treadmill

The treadmill is a standard piece of gym equipment for walking or running indoors. However, you can use this machine to lose belly fat. Because spot reduction isn't possible, you need to perform cardiovascular exercise to burn fat from all over your body. You need at least 30 minutes of cardio five times a week to burn enough calories to lose about 1 lb. a week, according to MayoClinic.com. So maintain a moderate pace while on a the treadmill to get your heart rate up and to shed fat from all over.

Elliptical Trainer

The elliptical trainer is a machine that coordinates arm and leg movements for cardiovascular benefit. This is another piece of gym equipment that burns calories and fat from your entire body. If you opt for this machine, commit to at least a 30-minute routine per exercise session.

Circuit Training

Circuit training is another option to rid yourself of body fat while at the gym. In fact, this type of exercise combines several forms of exercise at once to burn calories and build strength at the same time. Prepare a list of several exercises like running on the treadmill, pushups, situps, biceps curls, cycling, triceps dips and squats to name a few. Then cycle through each exercise giving one minute to each. If you exercise for 30 minutes, repeat the circuit for your entire workout.

Abdominal Sculpting

While at the gym, you can also tone your stomach muscles. This won't help you lose belly fat, but it will ensure your abdominal muscles are toned and defined once the fat does come off. Exercises you can do at the gym include hanging knee raises, leg lifts, planks and even Pilates classes.

References

Article reviewed by John Hagemann Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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