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From Start to Fitness Q: I want to lose weight in my legs and thighs. I do step aerobics classes three times a week, but feel like I may be slimming in the wrong places. Is this a possibility? A: Step aerobics can be a great source of cardiovascular exercise. Using choreography and raised floor steps, you can expend a great amount of calories with this activity. While participating in activities such as step aerobics it is definitely possible to lose weight and body fat throughout your whole body. The ability to lose weight in one particular area and not others is called "spot training" (or spot reducing). This type of training is unsuccessful because you are unable to choose where and when your body will lose weight and body fat first. While you are completing a step aerobics program, your whole body is responding to the stresses being placed on it, not just one area. Although you feel your legs and heart doing the majority of the work, your whole body is working together to achieve your goal of finishing the program. Don't get discouraged - all of your hard work is not going to waste. Your body will respond to your exercise routine and over time show results where you desire. Consider that as you complete a step aerobics routine, you are strengthening your legs and gaining endurance, which will lead to the ability to burn more calories, helping your thighs to lose body fat. Oftentimes we identify a "problem area" and focus on that area because it is our biggest challenge. Even though our body is working on the area (at its own pace) the progress is sometimes not as quick as we would like. Believe that as long as you are consistent and modify your program accordingly, your exercise routine is working to get the job done. The changes you are seeing with your body are great. Although the changes may not yet be visible in the thighs and legs, as you desire, your commitment to exercise is improving your overall health. Remember that a strengthtraining routine and proper nutrition are important to seeing lasting results. Keep working hard and stay patient and consistent with your exercise program. You may be just a few steps away from seeing the results you desire. Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program. Andrea Renee Wyatt, M.S.S., C.S.C.S., is a certified personal trainer with an extensive background in strength and conditioning as well as therapeutic recreation. If you have a fitness or training question, email Andrea at letters.kfws@hearstsc.com or write her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475.
(c) 2007 King Features Synd., Inc.
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