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Tim Robards knows a thing or two about rock hard abs. Picture: Men’s Health
WITH summer well and truly here, I’m dreaming of being in my boardies at the beach about now. But that's not everyone’s cup of tea. And usually that has something to do with coming out of the winter hibernation and jumping into swimwear.
Hopefully you don’t put excess pressure on yourself to be photo-shoot ready, but we all want to feel our best. So here are my tips if you want to find that lean stomach this summer.
1. DON’T JUST DO SIT UPS
And don’t make the majority of your workout ab related. Sure having a strong core and muscular development in that abdominal region can be aesthetically pleasing, but doing sit ups does not target the fat on your tummy. You can’t target fat loss.
Instead, aim to hit lots of functional movements like Zuu which uses animalistic moves, a HIIT (high intensity interval training) session, The Robards Method or even a flow style Yoga. There are so many options out there with functional movements that use many muscles at once. More muscles means more fat burning.
Tim Robards and Anna Heinrich aren’t afraid of getting their abs out this summer.Source:Supplied
2. DON’T GO LOW FAT
Usually going low fat means going high sugar or artificial sweetener, especially if you buy products advertised as low in fat.
It’s pretty clear that since mid last century we’ve all been eating way to much sugar and refined foods. Fats are the building blocks for cell membranes, our hormones and also help the absorption of certain minerals, just to name a few of its roles.
The debate is still out about whether saturated fat is actually harmful but the evidence is pretty clear that trans fats are not good for us (margarines and some vegetable oils). I would suggest eating the types of fats your great grandparents would have.
3. DON’T GET SUCKED INTO THE MARKETING OF FAT BURNING PILLS AND POWDERS
Many of these are full of stimulants and broken promises. It’s a huge industry and everyone is looking for a shortcut, so it’s no surprise that companies will take advantage of that. Nothing beats having a balanced diet or real food.
4. DON’T OPT FOR LONG RUNS LIKE A MOUSE ON A SPINNING WHEEL
Sure its better than sitting on your butt all day, but if time is of the essence and you want to get some bone strengthening and muscles building benefits as well, go for a HIIT workout.
These are shown to have the greatest fat burning benefits … plus it’s fun!
5. DON’T LET THE FESTIVE SEASON BE AN EXCUSE TO FORGET YOUR GOALS
The festive season is meant to be … well … festive! So enjoy it but don’t let it blow out your goals.
If you have set goals, stick to them. But it may also be worth giving yourself a little bit of leeway at this time of year, so you don’t get down on yourself with unrealistic expectations. Set challenging goals, but keep them realistic!
Dr Tim Robards is a chiropractor and exercise scientist (B. Med. Sc, M. Chiro). Tim recently launched his unique exercise and diet program The Robards Method.