Do Crunches and Planks reduce belly fat?

Belly Fat

Fat is stored in fat cells throughout the body. Different parts of the body will be treated as a warehouse to store excess fat. Genetics and lifestyle determine the location in the warehouse in the body. 
There are 3 types of fat. Triglycerides, Subcutaneous and Visceral or more commonly known as belly fat. This belly fat is linked to obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and the like. It is the most dangerous type of fat.
The body ideally draws its energy from the subcutaneous layer for the internal organs. This in turn release hormones and chemicals for the healthy functioning of the body by regulating insulin secretion, appetite, and burning stored fat.
But when the visceral fat is available right at your midriff near the stomach, the body tends to pick that over the subcutaneous fat, which in turn enables the organs to produce alarming levels of hormones and chemicals which again gets transported other organs like the liver through the blood. This increased processing of fat in the liver leads to fatty liver disease and higher LDL cholesterol levels. Fat accumulation is not good for health.

Crunches and Planks do not work!

Crunches and Planks are the most common ab exercises. To lose belly fat, crunches and planks will lead to disappointment. These exercise routines will help to build and strengthen ab muscles and not shed fat or burn a lot of calories. Even doing crunches and planks all day will not help to reach your goal.

What to do?

In simple terms, burn calories to cut fat. A cardio routine is enough to burn calories. Feed on fewer calories than what you burn. This will help you to convert fat into usable energy. Always make sure to consume a balanced meal and it is ideal to eat clean and achieve results. 

 

Burn Calories:

Cardio routines will help you burn extra calories and to convert fat into fuel. High-intensity interval training or circuit training with a disciplined meal plan will bring the change. Long cardio sessions coupled with targeting muscle groups can help burn more calories. 

 

Plan and Challenge yourselves:

Write your goal and remind yourself about the goal before every meal of the day. Make it a ritual to read the goal now and then. Plan a workout routine ideally with more cardio routines in the beginning. Add High-intensity interval training or circuit training after one month. Try to hit the gym 5 days a week. Slowly push it harder and challenge yourself. Even a minute longer cardio or an extra rep will take a step closer to the goal.