Sorry to say it, but “Be Honest” is a Core Value at Sasquatch Strength. We all wish there was a magic pill/diet/fitness routine that would instantly leave us with the physique of our dreams and visible six pack abs – but the unfortunate truth is such a thing doesn’t exist. 

Unless you’re already super lean you can’t get “six pack abs” in a day or a week or usually even several weeks. The six pack abs you see on all the fitness models requires there to be very little fat on the abdominal region. Fun fact: everybody has six pack abs – you just can’t see them on most people. Working out those ab muscles in the gym will make them stronger, maybe bigger, but the only way to make them visible is to not have fat between the skin and the muscles. 

Contrary to what magazines and other products and influencers who are trying to sell you something (a magazine, a product, their services… etc.) tell you, it is not possible to spot-train for fat loss. When it comes to losing fat, our bodies have natural patterns of fat distribution determined by factors such as genetics, hormones, and individual body composition and we cannot selectively choose where we lose fat from. 

The concept of spot reduction - targeting specific areas of the body for fat loss through exercise - is a persistent myth. Doing exercises that target a specific area, such as abdominal exercises to lose belly fat, does not directly result in fat loss in that particular region. While exercises can help strengthen and build specific muscles, they do not specifically target the fat stores in that area.

When we lose body fat, it occurs in a more generalized manner throughout the body. You may find you lose fat from some areas of your body sooner than others, but, unfortunately, it is impossible to control that – thank genetics for that one. 

The most effective way to reduce body fat is a comprehensive approach that combines a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maybe fat loss strategies.

Note: while caloric deficit is often part of the equation when seeking fat loss, it is not always the answer. Especially if someone has been yo-yo dieting and/or restricting food for years, often they need to eat more not less. Why? Well, that’s a whole ‘nother article. If you’re interested in hearing more about nutrition and how it can help you lose fat and gain muscle, Nutrition Coaching is offered through Sasquatch Strength.