what type of cardio for belly fat reduction?

newdicarlo · May 22, 2009

I was banded on March 2, 2009 and have lost about 45 pounds. I'm still around 235-240. I've been walking about 5 times a week for the last 8 weeks or so, and have increased from 20 minutes to about 35-45 per session (mostly flat areas with some hills) . I am losing weight and feeling good, my legs and tush are definitely more muscular and I'm also working my arms with freeweights 3-4 times a week.

My question is--everyone says cardio, cardio, cardio to get rid of belly fat--am I doing the right thing? Should I be doing something different? I want this spare tire to shrink!

chocolate_snaps · May 22, 2009

They are correct, cardio (any kind vigorous enough) will burn fat. However, you cannot spot reduce. Cardio burns calories and where it comes off is unique to the individual.

I think it may help to do more vigorous types to cardio. Like jogging and gym cardio machines. Its all about intensity and duration.

I certainly wouldn't have lost so much so fast were it not for the elliptical machine at my gym.

kagoscuba · May 22, 2009

They are correct, cardio (any kind vigorous enough) will burn fat. However, you cannot spot reduce. Cardio burns calories and where it comes off is unique to the individual.
I think it may help to do more vigorous types to cardio. Like jogging and gym cardio machines. Its all about intensity and duration.

I certainly wouldn't have lost so much so fast were it not for the elliptical machine at my gym.

x2 What type of cardio wil reduce belly fat? any will; however, depending on your body, belly fat may be the last spot fat is noticably reduced. It's not because your are doing the wrong exercise; blame genetics. For some people it is the back of arms, thighs, or butt. Sounds like yours is the belly, same as me. My legs and arms look great, as well as my chest up. Below my chest to the top of my waist is still a horror show though, and I do what some people would consider to be an obsessive amount of cardio. It may take another year, but I'll take care of it, and you will too. Good luck!!

Jachut · May 23, 2009

You're early on and the belly fat will probably be the last to go, if you're more apple shaped, it will take a long time. Its reducing, but of course, you want it all gone now! Even for those of us more pear shaped, there's some stubborn belly fat that hangs around.

Your routine sounds good, it depends on your fitness though. I'd be aiming to jog, then run, rather than walk - although any cardio will work - intensity is what really makes the difference.

And its not as hard as it sounds, running 10k for me now is quite an easy, comfortable thing to do. It's .

chocolate_snaps · May 23, 2009

Kagoscuba and Jachut thats some sound advice. Some genes just suck no matter what you do.

I my case, I am closer to an hour glass than an apple shape and even though for the most part I look normal, my stomach is ridiculously still fat. Seems like the only thing that will get rid of my gut is more exercise and some PS.

Edited May 23, 2009 by chocolate_snaps
Damn this fat stomach to hell!