Common fitness questions
by Armand Tecco, M.Ed.

Q: Is doing sit-ups the best way to lose my belly?

A: Abdominal exercises are great for strengthening and firming up the abdominal muscles, but they do little to erase the fat that accumulates at the belly. To lose the fat, you literally have to burn it off by using it for energy. You can do that by engaging in regular aerobic (cardiovascular) exercise, reducing your caloric intake, or through a combination of the two. Your body will then draw from the fat stores at your belly, using those stores for energy. Thus, your belly size will be reduced.

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Q: Should I stretch before or after I do aerobic exercise?

First of all, stretching "cold" muscles is potentially harmful and less effective than stretching when the muscles are properly warmed up. Theoretically, you should perform some sort of aerobic activity lightly for five minutes to warm up, then stretch, then resume your aerobic activity, and stretch again at the end. The problem is that most people don't!

A: Regular stretching is probably the most neglected area of fitness. In order to get people to stretch, I suggest performing all your stretches at the end of the exercise session. It is more likely you will stretch once, rather than twice in the same workout. Aerobic exercise, such as walking and jogging, slightly stresses the muscles and tendons, making them tighter. Therefore, it's best to stretch after a workout to help relax the exercised muscles. Muscles that are warmed up can be stretched safely and effectively.

Q: What is the best aerobic exercise?

A: Simple! The best exercise is the one you will perform on a regular basis. It is also the one that you are comfortable doing or enjoy the most. Just make sure you do the activity continuously for 20 minutes or longer, and that it elevates your heart rate and involves the large muscles (legs) while not adversely stressing your joints or musculature. Nor should it aggravate an existing medical condition. So when choosing the best exercise, consider your preferences, health status and access to specific activities. If you do, you'll make the right choice.

Q: What is the quickest way to tone up?

A: The best way to tone your body is to perform resistance/weight training exercises on a regular basis. Such exercises make your muscles firmer, stronger and more defined ? which gives you that "toned" look. Of course, if the muscles are hidden under a layer of excess fat, you'll need to combine your weight training with aerobic exercise and a healthy diet.

Q: Why do I seem to gain weight around my middle and nowhere else?

A: When you gain weight in the form of excess body fat, it accumulates in certain locations based on gender and heredity. Males have a tendency to accumulate the fat around the belly because that is where their center of gravity is. Females tend to gain more fat in the hips, thighs and buttocks for reproductive purposes.

Disclaimer:
The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website is for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician.