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Concentrated Cardio Can't Cut Calories?! |
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Wednesday, 20 May 2009
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IN THE ZONE
I was told that doing cardio at a lower intensity would help me burn more fat. So I’ve been doing that for the last couple of months, and well, the fat is still there! I even switch up my cardio regularly, alternating between the bike, treadmill and StairMaster. Still nothing. So, what’s the deal? What should I be doing?
Mark S. via Internet
Here’s the skinny on how to shed the fat. Your body utilizes two major sources for energy: carbohydrates and fat. When working out at a lower intensity, you will be utilizing more calories from fat, but burning fewer calories overall. When working out at a higher intensity, you will be burning more total calories but mainly from carbohydrates. When it comes down to it, the more calories you burn, the more weight you will lose. So even though more calories may be coming from fat, you will be burning more overall calories by performing exercise at a higher intensity. Only by maximizing calories burned and limiting calories taken in will you ultimately lose weight. —MD
FUNKY FEET
My mother always told me I had flat feet, but I guess I never really cared to know what that meant. But now that I’m exercising on a daily basis, I realize that my shins and my joints seem really sore after running in the park or on the treadmill. My friends now back up my mom and say it’s because of my flat feet. Is there anything to be done that can correct this so I can continue to exercise without the pain?
Dylan Scott in Washington, D.C.
The medical terminology for “flat feet” is pes planus, and it’s where the arch of the foot collapses and part of the sole—or the entire sole—comes in direct contact with the ground. You are not alone: 20 to 30 percent of the general population have flat feet. If you are truly flat-footed, walking barefoot can be a problem. Since your mom told you about this long ago, I can assume that you did not acquire flat feet from a physical injury, illness or prolonged stress to the foot. So the good news is there is treatment. You need to see a podiatrist. Treatment for foot or shin pain may include arch support (insoles), foot gymnastics and other exercises. Once insoles are prescribed, they are generally worn for the rest of your life. Studies show that those individuals with high arches (which is not you) suffer from a higher incidence of stress fractures. I would consult a specialist before continuing the treadmill. I do know one thing: You wouldn’t do well wearing high heels. —PF
Article continues below... 
THE DINING-OUT DILEMMA
I recently received a promotion, which is great, but it requires me to travel a lot more. Since receiving the promotion, I’ve put on more than 10 pounds—even with exercising regularly. I’m constantly wining and dining clients, and that’s likely the problem. Any suggestions on how to eat better while dining out?
Carl in Toluca Lake, CA
When you are in a profession that requires a lot of traveling and eating out, it can be difficult to maintain healthy eating habits. Here are a few suggestions—that aren’t rocket science—but can be seen as friendly reminders. First, skip the alcohol. While you may need to buy a couple of cocktails for your client, limit your own consumption or only have one drink/glass. When ordering dinner, try to always order a side of grilled vegetables or a side salad—the fiber will help you feel full. Stay away from fried foods and red meat. Ask for chicken or fish, and request that they be grilled or broiled. Limit your portions by not finishing the entire entrée/plate and skip appetizers and/or desserts. Making small changes in food selection and cutting back on portion size and alcohol will help keep your eating habits under more control. —MD
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