Perform Interval Training 3x Per Week (Aerobic Cardio Training Is Not Effective For Fat Loss!)
If you are one of millions of people in this country who are genetically predisposed to be obese, you shouldn’t despair. That’s because new research suggests you can lower your risk of genetic obesity by being physically active. The “fat gene” is present in approximately three-quarters of Americans, researchers say, and is associated with a 20 to 30 percent increased risk of weight gain.
Many of us believe that once a condition – in this case, obesity – is ‘programmed’ into our genes, there is no way to escape it. “Fortunately, as this study shows, that’s not the case.” In fact, this newest research, published in the recent issue of PloS Medicine Journal, indicates that even people who carry the gene can reduce their risk of obesity with regular exercise, and control their weight better than those who are genetically predisposed but do not work out.
Preventing the excess weight and fat from piling on is not only a matter of health, but also of life and death: according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 112,000 Americans die each year from illnesses related to obesity – heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and many others. The message here is as clear as a bell: if you are susceptible to obesity, it is absolutely essential to do everything in your power to maintain a healthy weight.
The good news is that you can blunt the impact of genetics with something as simple as exercise. A vigorous fitness program performed on regular and sustained basis will be effective, especially if combined with a sensible diet consisting of lean protein, beans, fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy fats.
If you want a routine that’s highly effective for weight loss and maintenance, consider interval training. It will boost your metabolism for a longer period than traditional steady-state cardio, and continue to burn calories and fat for many hours after your workout is finished. The important thing, is to do everything you can to beat Mother Nature.
Remember: just because obesity is in your genes doesn’t mean it’s beyond your control. Think ‘fit,’ not ‘fat’!
Brien Shamp brings you 22 years of experience as a Body Transformation Expert, Personal Trainer, Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach, Massage Therapist, Strength Coach for College & Pro Athletes and Reiki Practitioner. In 2011 he was nominated one of the top ten trainers in the country. Brien has a degree in Biomechanics from UC Davis and extensive graduate studies in Exercise Physiology from SF State. Brien won first place in the Met-Rx World’s Best Personal Trainer Contest in 1999 and was nominated Best in the Bay by KRON 4 for Weight Loss in 2009. He is an active author in Parenting on the Peninsula, Ms. Fitness Magazine and his FREE Blog with thousands of subscribers at (paste hyperlink here)
