Weight loss and exercise: What works and what doesn't?
Many people starting an exercise program are told they can expect
to lose around two pounds of fat each week. Some people do.
However, the majority doesn't.
It's easy to think the problem lies with you. Is it because your
metabolism is slow? Are you getting older and burning calories at
a slower rate? Is it in your genes? You stick to the program, and
still you don't lose any weight.
Although it comes as a surprise to many, the majority of research
shows that aerobic exercise - such as waking, jogging, cycling or
rowing - in the so-called "aerobic training zone" is not a very
effective way to lose fat.
At best, you can expect to lose between one-quarter and one-half
pound of fat per week, depending on how much aerobic exercise
you do.
Regular exercise is important because it promotes the loss of
subcutaneous fat. Subcutaneous fat is stored just under your
skin. Visceral fat surrounds and protects your internal organs.
Aerobic exercise also allows for a higher energy flux, which
refers to the flow of calories (or energy) through your body.
This lets you balance a higher calorie intake with an equally
high volume of exercise.
Not only will this help you to stay lean, it's also a great
way to provide your body with the vitamins, minerals and other
nutrients it needs. Some vitamin deficiencies are linked with
an increased risk of heart disease, while a mineral deficiency
can make it harder for you to lose weight.
That said, trying to make up for a bad diet by doing hours and
hours of exercise isn't a good idea. Too much aerobic exercise
can create a hormonal environment that encourages the storage of
abdominal fat. This might explain why many people struggle to get
the flat stomach they want, despite spending hours in the gym.
To view the whole article, visit:
http://thefactsaboutfitness.com/arti...icexercise.htm
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