Learning how to burn fat is one of the most sought-after lessons from people looking to lose a lot of weight, belly fat or the stubborn last 10 pounds. Weight loss and fat loss are not always congruent, as weight loss often consists of water weight and possibly muscle mass in addition to fat stores. Losing fat often proves to be difficult for most people, especially with increasing age, hormonal changes and unhealthy lifestyles. However, you can learn how to burn fat effectively for the lean and lithe body of your dreams.
Speak with a health professional about how to burn fat. There is a plethora of information out there today about the best way to lose weight and burn unwanted fat, but much of it may not be true or work for everyone. Fat loss may depend on your individual characteristics such as age, height, current weight, physical activity level and medical conditions. Try setting up an appointment with a fitness trainer to determine your baseline weight and percentage of fat. A trainer or health coach can set you up on a program that meets your needs and many also offer a free first session to try it out.
Research foods that aid in the fat-burning process. Although foods do not burn fat directly, per se, they can speed up the metabolism, which increases the body's ability to burn calories and fat. For instance, according to Forbes.com, the pectin in apples binds with water in the body to help limit the amount of fat absorbed by cells. Other potential fat-burning foods include high-fiber oats, cinnamon, high-protein eggs and pine nuts, which are a source of health fatty acids that may prevent belly fat from forming.
Adding high-intensity intervals to your workout regimen can aid in fat burn, according to BCLiving.ca. Intervals are a form of exercise in which you change up the pace and intensity, or how hard you work, during a workout. It involves a period of harder, or more intense efforts, coupled with a period of lighter efforts to allow rest and recovery. Intervals are usually performed in a 1:2 or 2:1 ratio. An example of intervals during running is to sprint hard for a minute followed by two minutes of lighter jogging to allow your heart rate to normal. Repeat 10 times followed by a cool-down period.
- Always consult with a physician or health professional prior to initiating a new physical activity regimen or diet that could affect your health.
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