Fat loss and losing Belly fat is probably the biggest reason people start an exercise or training program. Let’s be honest, it doesn’t look great and makes us feel down on ourselves.
Below I have put my 7 deadly top tips to burning off the belly bulge.
- Burn more calories than you are consuming for optimal fat loss!
If you are not in a calorie deficit (burning more calories than you are consuming) you will put on weight, Simple right? The best way to burn calories is get moving and fast!
Strive for 4 days a week of 45 minutes of reasonably intense activity. (ease your way into it as a beginner, as exercise is a stress on the body also). Our CPT Afterburn™ classes are a great way to build muscle, burn fat and get lean, incorporating your cardio, strength and mobility in 45 minutes classes. Be careful of long cardio activity, as too much can start to break down muscle tissue, which is the exact OPPOSITE of what we want! The more muscle we can build the better for boosting that metabolism thus more of a chance of being in a calorie deficit, LONG TERM!
- Consuming Sugar in any form slows down fat loss
Science shows that there is a strong link between insulin resistance and belly fat. Uncontrolled blood sugar is the cause for insulin resistance, so controlling blood sugars is key. Cutting out excess sugar is crucial to stave off belly fat. Some foods naturally have sugar, such as, fruit, so fore-go the extra sprinkle of sugar if you are looking to show off those rock-hard abs. A great swap is regular fruit for fruit juices, which are just huge culprits for added sugar on top of natural sugar. Go for more natural alternatives like organic honey (yes it has sugar, but not at as high of levels as regular table sugar).
- Drinking Alcohol is a no no for fat loss
Alcohol tends to have an appetite-stimulating effect, which usually leads to over-eating. This is very counteractive in your attempt to create those ‘beach-ready’ abs. Alcohol is also just a source of empty calories (lots of calories with little to no nutritional benefit). If you do feel the desire to have an adult beverage, try to leave out as many of the mixers as possible, which are usually just sugar-laden and increase the calorie content.
- Eating When Stressed hinders fat loss
Stress causes the production of cortisol, better known as the stress hormone, and excessive cortisol production tends to increase appetite and store more body fat. Stress also causes overeating. So just take a deep breath, relax, and don’t drive yourself crazy obsessing over the abs you may or may not have. Don’t let other stressors get you down, such as, work, relationships, school, etc. and find a way to release that stress, such as, Breathing techniques, exercise and laughing!
- Lack of Sleep really affects fat loss
Sleep is as important for optimal health and losing the bulge as training itself. Our body needs to rest and recuperate during sleep. This is when it has a chance to regulate hormones and rebuild and regenerate cells. Not getting your 7-8 hours per night can produce excess Cortisol levels increase.
- Eat more Protein for optimal fat loss
Protein helps level off blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates. Remember how important it is to control those blood sugar levels (point 2). Many experts agree that increasing protein is one of the most important factors in reducing belly fat. So, stick to the lean proteins, such as, chicken, turkey, eggs and some fish. You can also find non-animal protein sources, such as, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, beans and nuts.
- Improve the quality of your calories
It is not just as simple as eating less than you are burning for fat loss. Your body can get inflamed and retain water from eating foods that you may have an intolerance to. It is important to minimise the risk of this by eating foods that are as close to their natural state as possible.ie one ingredient foods – Fish, Chicken, red Meat, Fruits, Veg, Eggs, Nuts etc. get the picture? Great
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APPLY FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION WITH ONE OF OUR EXPERT TEAM
WORK ONE ON ONE WITH OUR EXPERT COACHES TO DISCOVER THE EXACT STEPS YOU SHOULD TAKE TO ACHIEVE AMAZING RESULTS