Body Works Fitness Tips

Ernest Brandon, CPT

The Truth About Spot Training for Fat Loss

Can we do more abs?

I like my arms and just want to make my legs smaller.

Can you show me some exercises to get rid of _______ ?

These are popular statements and questions heard by fitness professionals every day. Those professionals who truly care about getting you results and not just telling you what you want to hear are going to tell you the hard truth about taking fat off one area at a time.

Products you see on TV that claim to just make your waist smaller or trim your thighs in ''just 10 minutes a day'' are just gimmicks designed to tell you what you want to hear. The truth is, that no matter how many crunches you do, you will not have a flat stomach or see your abs until you do some serious work on the cardio equipment and switch those eating habits to clean and healthy. The same principal holds true for sculpted arms and legs as well. For those wanting to lose weight and ''tone up,'' weight training exercises are done primarily to sculpt the muscles and burn calories.

However, you must burn the layer of fat on top of the muscle to see the results of your weight training. This is done with a healthy diet and at least five hours of exercise a week. So, if you ask your trainer ''how do I get rid of this?'' and you are pointing to an accumulation of fat in a particular area ... thank them if they tell you to get on the treadmill.

These are the trainers who are trying to get you results and are not just ''telling you what you want to hear.'' With hard work and a healthy diet, you can have a flat stomach and see those sculpted muscles you are seeking ... there are just no quick fixes or easy ways out. You have to make fitness a priority in your life. Make exercise and healthy eating part of your daily routine. Give it time, you'll get there!