Guys, well nobody for that matter, ever wants to have a flabby stomach. The washboard stomach, six-pack abs, or whatever you want to call them is the ultimate goal. How do you achieve these fabled abs if you have excess belly fat? Getting rid of belly fat is not rocket science, but it also isn’t as easy as people think.
Crunches don’t get you abs. Wait…let us clarify that you won’t be able to see your abs if you have belly fat, even if you do crunches. Working out your abs will build muscle, but that muscle will stay hidden under the belly fat. You have to take further action by making dietary, workout, and lifestyle changes in order to trim the fat to see that washboard.
High Intensity Workouts
Rather than grunting in front of the mirror trying to curl 120lbs, try lifting lighter weights in circuits that workout the entire body. For example, do ten squats with 100lbs immediately into 5-7 pull-ups, and finish the circuit with a 45 second plank. Do not rest between exercises. Rest for 1 minute after completing the circuit and then repeat it two more times. Always make sure to do at least 15 minutes of cardio at the end of your workout. Never skip a full cardio day either!
Simple Carbs Are Your Enemy
The things that taste the best are usually the worst for you. All that fat, oil, and sugar may taste good going down, but it does not help with managing your weight. You’ll be well on your way to a flatter stomach if you cut foods like donuts, ice cream, cookies, bread, and cake out of your diet.
Don’t Starve Yourself
Starving yourself to get rid of belly fat is not a good idea. Your body is very efficient at managing reserves and it will keep you from depleting your energy. If you cut a lot of food out of your diet, then your metabolism slows down, which ultimately increases your fat storage.
Go Plant-Based
Meat, meat products, dairy products, processed foods, simple carbs, refined sugars, and fried foods contribute to belly fat. It makes sense, then, to eliminate these foods and switch to foods that keep your body functioning optimally. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains like quinoa, barley wheat, or steel cut oats are foods you should focus on for proper nutrition; and 80% of losing weight is diet.
When you are trying to lose weight and get rid of belly fat, you have to understand that you won’t see an immediate difference. Losing weight takes time, especially if you have 15-20lbs or more to lose around your midsection. If you stick to your diet, exercise regimen, and don’t cheat, you will trim that belly fat!
