Introduction
If you’re striving for a toned body, you must first understand the types of fat in the human body and how to tackle the most common one—subcutaneous fat. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you with your tone-up transformation by shedding excess subcutaneous fat.
Understanding Fat
Before diving into the transformation journey, let’s define fat and identify the three main types.
What is Fat?
Fat, also known as adipose tissue, is an energy-rich connective tissue made from lipids found throughout the body in various forms. It plays a vital role in storing energy and protecting internal organs.
Three Main Types of Fat
- Visceral Fat: Located inside the abdominal cavity, it surrounds internal organs. Excess visceral fat can lead to serious health issues like type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Intramuscular Fat: Found within the muscles, this type of fat provides energy during physical activities.
- Subcutaneous Fat: Situated just under the skin, subcutaneous fat is the focus of this guide, as most people consider it when thinking about body fat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Shedding Subcutaneous Fat
Step 1: Assess Your Lifestyle
Identify your daily caloric intake, exercise routines, and overall lifestyle habits that might contribute to subcutaneous fat accumulation. Insufficient sleep is associated with higher levels of the hormone ghrelin, which increases appetite, and lower levels of the hormone leptin, which leads to feeling less full. This sets people up to gain weight. By contrast, sleeping more could alter these hormones and bring them back to balance.
How UAC can help: Contact us to schedule a free InBody scan to identify your daily caloric requirements.
Step 2: Create a Balanced Diet
Plan a diet high in vegetables and low in processed foods. Monitor your caloric intake to avoid surplus and focus on nutrient-dense options.
How UAC can help: Read the Plate Method or book a free Nutrition Consultation.
Step 3: Incorporate Regular Exercise
Engage in a mix of cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Strength training helps build muscle and increases your metabolism. Mult-joint movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and pulls engage more muscles, leading to a symmetrical, toned look. Cardiovascular training should consist of all three energy systems, from longer, low-intense workouts (like long runs) to shorter, more intense workouts (like a 10-minute workout with kettlebell swings and jump rope).
How UAC can help: Read “Fitness to the Power of 3“, join our free monthly community class, or book a Free Intro Session.
Step 4: Monitor Your Progress
Measure your subcutaneous fat regularly through an InBody scan, calipers, or a scale at home to track your progress and stay motivated.
How UAC can help: Contact us to schedule a free InBody scan.
Step 5: Address Any Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Consult healthcare providers if you have medical conditions like diabetes that may contribute to subcutaneous fat accumulation. Medication or treatment adjustments may be necessary.
Step 6: Stay Committed and Patient
Toning up and reducing subcutaneous fat is a gradual process. Maintain a positive attitude, and remember that weight loss is not a race.
How UAC can help: Book a Free Intro Session.
Step 7: Work with a Professional
Working with a personal trainer, group coach, or nutrition coach can help you start your journey or get back on track. Also, tools like workout and nutrition coaching are vital to tracking progress and celebrating small wins toward your specific needs and goals.
How UAC can help: Book a Free Intro Session.
Conclusion
Subcutaneous fat is a natural part of the human body, but excess amounts can lead to health issues. Following the steps above can set you on the path to a tone-up transformation. Whether you want to tone your abdomen, legs, or arms, a consistent and balanced diet, exercise, and lifestyle management will help you shed subcutaneous fat and achieve the desired toned look. Remember, your journey towards a toned body is unique, and perseverance is vital to achieving your goals.
At Urban Athletic Club, we strive to be the best gym in DC by combining data and metrics from InBody scans and workout data with a challenging strength and conditioning program and regular accountability. If you’re ready to start your journey, schedule a free No-Sweat Intro.