We're in the middle of January now and I'm sure all of you are sticking to your New Year's resolutions of getting in shape and losing weight right? Well I sure hope that is the case, but if not, let's get back to business and get motivated to stay on track! What I'd like to talk about today are some fat burning exercises so that when we're busting our butts working out, you'll reap the most benefits.
How Fat Burning Exercises Work
Cardio exercises burn calories but to burn calories from fat and burn them well, aerobic exercises at longer durations and weight lifting— both utilizing the major muscle groups will burn a much higher percentage. These types of exercises include running, walking, swimming, jogging, and using cardio machines such as treadmills or ellipticals. The key here is to use as many major muscle groups as possible. The fun part is that there are so many exercises you can do to burn fat that you won't become bored. Some people loathe cardio but with some variation at least it doesn't have to be dull.
Benefits of Fat Burning Exercise
Because fat burning exercises involve major muscle groups it means your body's metabolism will increase and you will continue to burn calories long after you're done working out. Therefore, the more you add exercise to your lifestyle, the more fat burning enzymes you will create.
Exercises to Burn Fat
Remember to try to go for longer periods each time you perform a cardio exercise. You're not trying to wear yourself out by being out of breath. When you're lacking oxygen during exercise, you are not burning fat, rather you are burning glycogen (your body's naturally produced sugar.) Some fat burning exercises to add to your routine include:
- Lifting weights
- Stair and elliptical machines
- Walking
- Running
- Cycling
- Jogging
- Martial arts (cardio kickboxing)
- Indoor rock climbing
- Swimming
Cardio doesn't have to be limited to running or walking. Change up your cardio routine, go for longer sessions each time, and burn the fat!
