Q: How fast can I lose mid-section weight?

A: When you decide to make a lifestyle change, it is essential to have realistic goals and expectations. Once you have set your goals, consistency and moderation are the keys to success. If you approach weight loss by choosing to make healthier decisions, you can expect to lower your body fat at a rate of one or two pounds per week.

And remember,  muscle weighs more than fat. This means that while your total body weight may not be going down, your body fat could still be. As a result, it is often better to track your progress with scales that measure body fat percentage.

If you are concerned about the fat around your mid-section, be aware that spot reduction is a myth. This means that you cannot target one specific area for weight loss, no matter how many abdominal crunches you do! Crunches are effective in strengthening your abdominal muscles and may tighten up the muscles under the fat, so that you may feel leaner, but there is no correlation between exercising a muscle and losing fat in that area.

Take away: If you want to lose that tummy weight, your best option would be to adopt an overall healthier lifestyle that includes nutritious foods and regular exercise. With this, you are sure to see results soon!

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.