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Houston Personal Trainer
Anu Kumar Morgan
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How quick will I see results?
Results will vary depending on your level of input. It will come down to how many days a week you are lifting weights and doing cardiovascular exercise, and at what intensity.
2. Am I going to "bulk up?"
Many women are worried about building too much muscle mass. This should be the least of their concerns. Fat takes up five times the amount of space as muscle and by replacing fat with muscle, you will actually be smaller, yet firmer.
3. Can fat be spot reduced?
No, this is a common myth. It takes cardiovascular exercise to burn up energy stores and fat. Isolated exercises for a particular region of the body will help tone that area, but will not remove the fat in that area.
4. If most fat is burned with cardiovascular exercise, do I need to lift weights if I’m just trying to lose weight?
Yes. By incorporating weights you will increase your muscle mass and therefore speed up your metabolism. Consequently, you will burn more calories while doing your cardio and while at rest. Also, keep in mind that cardio alone will not sculpt your body and give the definition that lifting weights will provide.
5. As long as I eat less, will I lose weight?
No. What matters most is what you are eating, what you are fueling your body with. Without the proper nutrients, your body will not give you the results you seek. Often, if not enough calories are consumed, the body will go into "starvation" mode and hold on to all the calories and fat you are consuming. Ultimately, your body might start burning lean muscle mass instead of fat reserves. This is why many people who do crash diets experience a "yo-yo" effect with their weight.
6. Do I need to take any supplements?
Yes, a multivitamin and antioxidant for sure. Other supplement usage varies depending on an individual basis. It is very difficult for most Americans to consume enough nutrients from their diet alone and so a multivitamin serves as an excellent supplement.
7. Is it better to do cardio in the morning or the evening?
Both are beneficial. Often it is argued that a morning workout will "jump start" the metabolism, but many individuals may not have the energy without having a healthy breakfast first. The most important thing to keep in mind is, either way your cardio is done, you will be burning calories and thus reducing fat.
8. How much cardiovascular exercise do I need to do to lose weight?
A minimum of four times a week for 30 minutes.
9. How many times a week do I need to lift weights?
You need to workout every major muscle group two times a week in order to see results.
10. Do I have to eliminate carbohydrates from my diet to lose weight?
No. Carbohydrates are essential in fueling your body (giving you energy). However, they are stored as fat, as is protein, when eaten excessively.
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