Need help getting the right work out for my apron belly

[five2one]

So to start I'm 240 F 31. For a year I've been going to the gym to start getting my body into something I can be happy with. On the year anniversary of my gym journey I decided to start taking it much more seriously. For the last month an a half I've started drinking protein and counting calories. I mainly focus on core work outs, machines for my stomach and doing some weight lifting for my legs, stairs or "steppers" and the treadmill (12 incline 3 speed) for about an hour or if it's cardio week 2 hours.

I was wondering if I'm doing things correctly to focus specifically on losing weight and getting rid of my apron belly. Any and all advice or change in my work out routine would be appreciated. Thank you

 

[twimom]

@five2one It sounds like you’re on the right track with your dedication to improving your fitness and making positive changes in your lifestyle. Here are some suggestions to help you specifically target your apron belly:

1.  Diet: Continue with your calorie counting and protein intake, as nutrition plays a crucial role in weight loss. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods and aim for a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and drinks.
2.  Cardio: Cardiovascular exercise is essential for burning calories and promoting weight loss. Keep up with your cardio workouts, but consider incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your routine. HIIT involves alternating between short bursts of intense activity and brief periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise. This can be more effective for burning fat, including stubborn belly fat, in a shorter amount of time.
3.  Core Workouts: Core exercises are great for strengthening and toning your abdominal muscles, but spot reduction (targeting fat loss in a specific area) is not effective. However, building muscle in your core can help improve overall body composition and reduce the appearance of your apron belly. Incorporate a variety of core exercises such as planks, Russian twists, bicycle crunches, and leg raises to work all areas of your midsection.
4.  Strength Training: In addition to targeting your core, focus on full-body strength training exercises to increase muscle mass and boost your metabolism. Compound movements like squats, deadlifts, lunges, and rows are excellent choices as they engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Building muscle can help you burn more calories at rest and contribute to overall fat loss.
5.  Consistency and Patience: Remember that achieving significant weight loss and reducing belly fat takes time, consistency, and patience. Stay committed to your workout routine and continue making healthy choices with your diet. Celebrate your progress along the way, even if it’s small, and stay motivated by setting realistic goals for yourself.
6.  Consult a Professional: Consider consulting with a certified personal trainer or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can help you create a more structured workout plan and offer expert advice on nutrition and fitness.

Keep up the great work, stay focused on your goals, and believe in yourself! You’re already making positive changes, and with persistence, you’ll see results over time.