Share this @internewscast.com

Belly fat is a common concern for many of my clients seeking to improve their overall health and appearance. While spot reduction is not entirely possible, incorporating cardiovascular exercise into your routine can be an effective way to reduce overall body fat, including stubborn belly fat. If you’re wondering how often you should do cardio to lose belly fat, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore how cardio benefits belly fat loss, determine the optimal frequency for cardio workouts, and provide a sample cardio workout specifically designed for targeting belly fat.

Incorporating regular cardio into your fitness routine is a key component of losing belly fat. Finding a balance between moderate-intensity workouts and higher-intensity interval training, along with a healthy diet, can contribute to overall fat loss and improved well-being. Always consult with a healthcare professional or fitness expert before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

Keep reading to learn more, and when you’re finished, be sure to check out 5 Most Effective At-Home Workouts for Weight Loss.

How is cardio beneficial for belly fat loss?

happy mature couple running
Shutterstock

Cardiovascular exercise, commonly known as cardio, involves activities that elevate your heart rate and increase oxygen consumption. Engaging in regular cardio workouts offers several benefits for losing belly fat:

1. Caloric Burn

Cardio exercises, such as running, cycling, and swimming, burn calories, creating a calorie deficit that’s essential for weight loss. As you consistently burn more calories than you consume, your body taps into stored fat reserves, including those around the abdominal area.

2. Metabolism Boost

Cardio helps boost your metabolism, leading to increased calorie expenditure even when you’re at rest. High-intensity cardio, such as interval training, is particularly effective in revving up your metabolic rate.

3. Reduction of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat, the fat stored around your internal organs, is associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Cardio helps reduce visceral fat, contributing to a healthier overall body composition.

How often should you do cardio to lose belly fat?

woman high knees, morning workouts for belly fat loss
Shutterstock

The frequency of cardio workouts depends on individual factors such as fitness level, goals, and time constraints. However, a general guideline for losing belly fat through cardio is as follows:

Moderate-Intensity Cardio

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week. This could include activities like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling. Break it down into sessions lasting at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Incorporate HIIT workouts into your routine two to three times a week. These short, intense bursts of activity followed by periods of rest are effective for burning calories and promoting fat loss, including in the abdominal region.

Here’s a sample cardio workout to lose belly fat:

1. Jumping Jacks

how to do jumping jacks demonstration
Shutterstock

Start with your feet together and your arms by your sides. Jump up and spread your legs while simultaneously raising your arms overhead. Quickly return to the starting position by jumping again. Repeat for one minute, maintaining a steady and controlled pace.

2. Burpees

illustration of burpees
Shutterstock

Begin in a standing position. Drop into a squat position, and place your hands on the ground. Jump your feet back, landing in a plank position. Perform a pushup, then jump your feet back toward your hands. Explosively jump into the air, reaching your arms overhead. Repeat for 45 seconds, focusing on proper form and engaging your core.

3. Mountain Climbers

mountain climbers exercise
Shutterstock

Start in a plank position with your wrists directly under your shoulders. Bring one knee toward your chest, then quickly switch legs. Keep your core engaged, and maintain a quick, rhythmic pace. Repeat for 45 seconds, alternating legs with each movement.

4. Rest

Take a 30-second rest period to catch your breath and prepare for the next round. Focus on controlled breathing and staying hydrated.

5. Repeat the Circuit

Complete the entire circuit (jumping jacks, burpees, mountain climbers, rest) three times for a comprehensive HIIT workout.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Government Shutdown Puts Millions at Risk of Stroke and Heart Attack by Halting Essential Medical Services

Across America, individuals at risk of a health crisis now face heightened…

My Father Was Diagnosed with the Same Dementia as Bruce Willis at 59: Doctors Attribute it to a Common Health Issue That Might Have Been Prevented

For Katryna Rogers, her father’s dementia diagnosis confirmed her worst fears. Robert…

Recurring UTIs: Could They Be an Early Indicator of Kidney Cancer? Insights from a Leading Nurse

Suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections could be a sign of kidney…

NHS Urged to Address PTSD Surge Affecting Nearly 50% of Patients Undergoing Specific Treatment

A stem cell transplant provides a second chance at life for thousands…

After losing 70lbs on Ozempic, an unexpected side effect is causing frustration

A weight-loss drug user has revealed an unexpected side-effect after shifting the pounds.  The…

Experts Find Alzheimer’s Medication May Enhance Communication Skills in Autistic Teens

A pill designed to treat Alzheimer’s could help treat teens with autism…

Doctor cautions against consuming these five ‘healthy’ foods

A weight-loss specialist has disclosed the five foods he avoids stocking in…

Pharmacist Reveals Three Health Habits to Skip — Including One That’s Surprisingly Common

A pharmacist has shared three things she would ‘never do,’ and one…

Autism Affected My Speech, But My Parents’ Unique Approach Helped Me Become a Leading News Anchor

Leland Vittert is living the dream. At 43, he has covered war…

Study Suggests UK Residents Take Better Care of Their Cars Than Their Health

Research indicates that Britons are tending to their cars more diligently than…

UK Physician Alerts NHS Patients About Health Risks Associated with Common Medication

A doctor has issued a stark warning to those who take a…