The key to getting the kind of firm flat abs that most people desperately want is to shed the excess stomach fat that's covering the muscle tissue beneath. The only problem is that you've got limited time and energy and you need to be sure that you're burning as much fat as you can.
One of the more popular fitness activities the world all over is running. A lot of people do it for fun, as a way to alleviate stress, and as a primary workout. The question is does running burn belly fat fast?
The answer is both yes and no.
Let's begin with the no: running doesn't burn belly fat... specifically. There is nothing to running that specifically targets the stomach (with one exception I'll get into in a moment). However, and this is the part where the Yes answer begins, running can burn body fat. In fact, it can burn a whole lot of it.
Running is an excellent cardio workout because it brings into motion practically every single muscle group. Your upper and lower body both take part in the motion so the fat burning effect can be substantial. However, as you can't burn fat from a specific body part, you won't lose belly fat by running any more than you would any from any other body part.
You will burn body fat period. Whether you burn more from your abs, thighs, arms, butt, or any other body part is mostly dependent on your genetic makeup. However, even if you're the sort of person who seems to have the most stubborn belly fat in the world, you can still run and see vast improvement in how your abs look.
I love running myself and do it a few times each week. It has helped me a lot in my quest to lose weight and get fit and I'm sure it would help you to. However, running is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to getting flat abs. You also need to carefully watch what you eat and to make sure to do strength workouts as well.
While cardio can be a substantial fat burner, having more muscle mass can be even more effective because muscles help to boost your metabolism. So, even if you love running, combine it with some strength training.
I promised you one tip on how you can use running to target your abs. The trick is to do some sprinting. When you sprint, your stomach is straining like crazy. Try to feel your abs when you spring, they'll be hard as steel. So, if you do regular sprinting with your more traditional running workouts, you'll be able to strengthen your abs dramatically. Give it a try and just keep running.
For more running tips, click here: Running to Burn Belly Fat Fast.
For other cardio workouts to get flat abs, click here: Cardio Workouts to Lose Stomach Fat.
John Davenport lost over 30 pounds in his twenties after being overweight most of his life. He now runs a weight loss forum and publishes a diet and fitness newsletter.
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