Upper Body Weight Loss Tips
The upper body consists of the chest, shoulders, back and arms. The upper body can start to develop fatty deposits and look flabby over the years if an exercise regimen is not maintained. Tips on proper exercise and diet improvement can help to tone the upper body and approve its appearance.
Eating Habits
Poor eating habits lead to weight gain in all areas of the body. It may take awhile for this weight gain to show up in the upper body area, but once it does, it can be hard to get rid of. Changes will have to be made to the diet. Foods like burgers, fries, cookies, cakes and pies will need to be omitted and replaced with healthier foods such as beans, leafy green vegetables, fruits and lean meats. If possible, eat four or five small meals instead of three big ones. This will help speed up metabolism and burn more calories.
Upper Body Workouts
To lose weight in the upper body region, an individual should engage in 3 to 4 days of cardiovascular exercise per week. Examples of exercises that work the upper body include elliptical training, kickboxing, rowing and swimming. It is recommended to spend at least 60 to 90 minutes a day in order to burn enough calories to see weight-loss results. If it is not possible to do the full 60 to 90 minutes all at once, these workouts can be broken up into shorter intervals through out the day.
Upper Body Muscles
Incorporating upper body weight training exercises will ensure that body mass and muscle is still maintained while losing the weight. The weight training will also improve muscle definition and tone the upper body. Examples of upper body weight training include free weights, push-ups, lateral raises, dips and curls. These exercises should be done at least three times per week for the best results.
Abdominal Muscles
If the midsection is an issue, it will need special attention in regard to exercise. Spend at least 2 days per week doing specific abdominal exercises such as scissor kicks, planks, abdominal crunches and hanging knee raises. Performing these exercises will help to trim inches off the stomach and obliques.