Expert: Kim Farmer - 7/7/2008

Question
Hi Kim!
I currently use a Gazelle for 3 or 4 miles in the morning and lift weights to gain muscle.  Then, while at work, I walk another 2 miles on my breaks.  I try to stick with a low calorie diet that is mostly protein & I also drink a protein shake in the mornings after my workout. I have lost 25 lbs of fat in the last 4 months (I now weigh 190), but I have a very stubborn belly that is covering the lower 4 abs in my "6 pack"...  the top abs are visible and my sides are developing lines as well.  At this time, I am not doing any work on my abs, as I don't want to build those muscles and make the fat stick out more...  Is there anything I can do or change to burn the fat faster?  I know that crunches will tighten my abs- will they also make them larger?  my main concern is to lose the remaining "roll" of fat when I sit down...
Thank you!
Scott

Answer
Hello-
Thanks for your question.  The fat that you refer to is different than the muscles that you are trying to build.  Whenever you do situps or other abdominal exercises, you are building the muscle that is underneath the layer of fat.  When you do cardio, you are attempting to lose the layer of fat.  Focus on the cardio and eating a smaller amount of calories in order to have a caloric deficit which will ultimately result in weight and fat loss.

I hope this helps, thanks for the question.

Kim