It is a common misconception that more effort produces greater results. The old adage work smarter not harder is a great way of summing up how body fat reduction is achieved. Let’s look at the facts: sure – it is a simple equation – calories in versus calories out, BUT what happens if that dips too low?! Your body starts to convert muscle into it’s energy source, which lowers your metabolism and stores more bodyfat! This is exactly what we do not want to happen.

The goal is lose bodyfat and save muscle. That’s what “cut or toned or ripped” means – reduce subcutanious fat so that the skin lies closer to the muscle showing off it’s natural contours! Six Pack, Baby!

The answer is balance. We all have a genetic code. Let’s find our maximum potential and work to operate to the best of that ability. That means we will have to do different things to lose body fat, maintain muscle, or improve performance on any athletic movement. This is where a fitness professional comes into play.
Finding your balance between calories in and calories out is key. What type of activity you do plays an important role in calorie timing, choice, and portion. It also will determine your rest – when your body actually repairs metabolism allowing you to continue to burn at higher levels.

So here it is: 5 key things to remember
1. Do not starve yourself – find the balance
2. Do not kill yourself in the gym – it’s not how much you do only, it’s what you do and how well you do it
3. Rest, but in the proper balance – your body can work on something daily
4. Do not obsess about fat loss – stress causes cortisol to raise – a hormone that triggers insuline uptake and fat storage
5. Consult a fitness professional for a personalized program – have your body type addressed to best attain your goals