Fitness From the Pro

As we age, our metabolism slows down which means the ability to burn fat also slows down.  There are a number of reasons for this.  One reason is genetics.  The genes we inherited from our parents determines the levels of appetite controlled hormones within our bodies.  These hormones dictate our basic activity level.  One example of this is fidgeting.  Fidgeting actually burns more calories and uses more energy.  Therefore, people who fidget are the higher metabolism types.  I’m sure we all know someone who can’t sit still without moving their leg, or just be able to sit and talk on the phone but has to walk around.

Gender is another reason why women burn fat and metabolize slower than men.  Since men usually have more muscle mass than women, their metabolism is higher and so is their fat burning abilities.  In fact, on average men’s metabolism is 10-15% higher than women’s.  Women’s bodies are designed to hang onto their body fat in case of pregnancy.

Don’t be discouraged though, regardless of genetics and gender there are ways to burn fat and increase your metabolism.  For the next couple of days I’ll share some of those secrets with you!