Cardio or Weights First?

Question from Member:

Which should I do first cardio or lift weights?

Answer from Joe Erwin, YMCA Head Trainer:

You should do a quick 5-10 minute cardio warm up, then lift weights and finish with 20-30 minutes of cardio. You benefit the most from weight training first so you don’t fatigue your muscles from your cardio workout.

Lose Belly Fat

Question from Member:

I want to lose my belly fat. How many sit-ups should I do to get rid of it?

Answer from Joe Erwin, YMCA Personal Trainer:

Abdominal exercises such as sit-ups, crunches, and planks are great for strengthening your core and back, but unfortunately do not contribute to fat loss around your mid-section.

There is no such thing as spot reducing fat, BUT a good exercise program including both strength training and cardiovascular workouts multiple times a week will give you the most effective results and help reduce excess fat throughout the body.

You should also eat a healthy well balanced diet full of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats and fruits and vegetables to help lose weight and reduce fat.