people training on treadmills

Does Walking on a Treadmill Burn Belly Fat?

Estimated read time: 3 minutes.

Do you want to know the truth about whether or not walking on a treadmill will help burn belly fat? Keep reading to find out! 

Treadmill, elliptical, stair stepper, bike. There are different ways to get in shape and lose weight – running, swimming, and biking are all popular options. But what about using a treadmill? Does walking on a treadmill burn belly fat? Let’s take a closer look at this form of exercise and see what the research has to say.

What is belly fat, and why is it bad for you

Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, is a type of fat that is stored around the abdominal organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is stored just under the skin, visceral fat is more active and is thought to produce hormones and other substances that can contribute to health problems. 

Some health risks associated with belly fat include heart disease, diabetes, and insulin resistance. While no magic foods or exercises can spot-reduce belly fat, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce overall body fat and promote better health.

The Benefits of Walking on a Treadmill

Walking is a great form of low-impact cardio that can help you burn calories and lose weight. One study in the Journal of Exercise Nutrition and Biochemistry showed that overweight women who walked for 50-70 minutes 3 days a week for 12 weeks reduced their waist circumference by an average of 1.1 inches and lost 1.5% body fat.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that spot-reducing fat is not possible. In other words, you can’t target belly fat specifically by exercising; you’ll need to lose weight overall to see results.

How to Burn Belly Fat?

There are some things you can do to help speed up the process. First, ensure you’re getting enough protein; aim for 0.55 grams per pound of body weight per day.

Second, cut back on refined carbs; these are high in sugar and can lead to weight gain. Third, add more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, packed with nutrients and fiber that will keep you feeling full longer. 

And finally, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

What are some tips for staying motivated to walk on a treadmill?

It can be easy to let your motivation for walking on a treadmill lapse. After all, walking in one place for an extended period can be boring. However, there are some simple tips that you can follow to stay motivated and make the most of your treadmill workouts:

  1. Set realistic goals for yourself. For example, rather than aiming to walk for an hour, start by walking for 10 minutes and build up from there.
  2. Mix up your routine by adding intervals of faster walking or changing the incline. This will help to keep your body guessing and prevent you from getting bored.
  3. Make sure to dress comfortably and listen to music or audiobooks to pass the time.

By following these tips, you can stay motivated and get the most out of your treadmill workouts.

Conclusion

Walking on a treadmill is a great form of low-impact cardio that can help you burn calories and lose weight. However, it’s important to remember that you can’t spot-reduce fat; you’ll need to lose weight overall to see results. To help speed up the process, ensure you’re getting enough protein, cutting back on refined carbs, and adding more whole foods. Additionally, be sure to stay hydrated and dress comfortably while you walk. By following these tips, you can make the most of your treadmill workouts and see the desired results.

FAQ

How many times a week should I walk on a treadmill to lose weight?

Aim to walk on a treadmill 3-5 times per week for the best results.

What is the best speed to walk on a treadmill to lose weight?

The best speed for you will depend on your fitness level and goals. However, most experts recommend starting with a moderate pace and increasing the intensity as you go.

How long should I walk on a treadmill to lose weight?

The duration of your treadmill workout will depend on your fitness level and goals. However, most experts recommend walking for at least 30 minutes to see results.

Joseph Peele