The "Spot Reduction" Myth

September 7, 2021

A jagged dark mass curves beneath a bright, white background.

At Axio Fitness, we strive to train our clients based on what they need for their body and their goals, and what they enjoy. There are so many right ways to exercise, so we want our clients to tell us what they enjoy, and we try to learn their interests and their exercise style.

However, so many clients request more ab exercises! More sit ups, planks, twists and bicycles. The reason being, they want a flatter stomach and they want rid of their belly fat.

But there is no such thing as “spot reduction.” Meaning, building muscle around a specific area on the body does not burn more fat in that area. The reason so many people have belly fat is not because they need to do more sit-ups, it is simply because that is where our body stores fat. For most of us, the core area is the first place our body stores fat and the last place it burns it during weight loss. It has to do with genetics and where and how your body stores and burns energy. And it has nothing to do with what exercises you do or do not do.

Therefore, we always try to get clients to understand that squats, push-ups and cardio flattens your belly more than 10 minutes of abs. If you want a flatter stomach, you need to burn off the stored fat through exercise and proper nutrition.

Don’t get me wrong, ab exercises are excellent! At Axio Fitness you can expect many planks or twists because we want to improve your overall strength, fitness levels and mobility. If you want a flatter stomach, we would love to help you with that!

< Older Post Newer Post >

Our Recent Blogs

The Surprising Perks of a Winter Walk

January 20, 2026

When the temperature drops, the instinct is often to curl up on the couch. However, stepping out into the crisp, winter air offers unique health benefits that you simply can’t get during a summer stroll. 1. A Natural Mood Booster Winter often brings shorter days and less sunlight, which can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Exposure to natural daylight—even on cloudy days—helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone. 2. Enhanced Calorie Burn Your body works harder to maintain its core temperature in the cold. This process, known as thermogenesis , can slightly increase your metabolic rate, meaning you burn more calories than you would walking in a climate-controlled gym. 3. Sharper Mental Clarity The biting cold acts like a natural wake-up call. It stimulates the nervous system, increases oxygen flow to the brain, and provides a "reset" for mental fatigue. There’s something uniquely meditative about the quiet, muffled sounds of a snowy landscape. Don’t let the frost keep you inside. Bundle up in layers, grab a warm hat, and embrace the invigorating chill—your body and mind will thank you.

Stop Labeling Your Food

January 5, 2026

Beyond "Good" and "Bad": A Smarter Way to Fuel

Give Yourself the Gift of Personal Training

December 9, 2025

Feeling the pressure of the crazy, expensive holiday season? It seems counterintuitive to add a personal trainer to your budget now, but this is precisely the best time to invest in one! Why? The holidays are a perfect storm of stress, endless obligations, and rich food, making consistency nearly impossible. A personal trainer is your ultimate accountability partner. They ensure your fitness doesn't fall off the cliff before January 1st. Your trainer will design quick, efficient workouts that maximize your limited time so you can still fit in shopping and parties. They'll also help you set realistic goals—like maintaining your weight or fitness level through the Holidays, not losing 10 pounds—which drastically reduces stress and guilt. Don't wait for the crowded New Year's rush. By starting now, you'll enter January with momentum and confidence. Treat your health as a priority this season; it's one investment that truly pays off.

The 20-Minute Thanksgiving Day Workout!

November 25, 2025

Before the turkey coma sets in and the pumpkin pie beckons, give thanks to your body with a quick, metabolism-boosting workout! Thanksgiving morning is the perfect time for a “Pre-Feast Fire-Up”, ensuring you start the day feeling strong and energized—no gym or equipment needed. Here is a 20-minute AMRAP (As Many Rounds as Possible) circuit right in your living room. The goal is simple: maximize intensity in a short time to ignite your fat-burning furnace. The Circuit (Complete 1 round, rest 60 seconds, repeat for 20 minutes): 10 Squat Jumps:** Explode up for power. 10 Push-Ups:** Modify on your knees if needed. 20 Mountain Climbers:** Keep that core tight and back flat. 10 Burpees:** The ultimate total-body finisher! This high-intensity session will boost your endorphins and metabolic rate, leaving you feeling accomplished before the first guest arrives. Don't let the holiday disrupt your fitness—use it as a reason to move! Do you need a plan to stay accountable this holiday season? Contact us to learn about how we help our clients meet and achieve their fitness goals.

Your email address will not be published.

Required fields are marked *