
K-pop singer HyunA has shared an update on her current weight loss focus.
HyunA recently posted several photos on her social media account along with the caption “Diet is the answer.” She showcased a casual outfit featuring a sweatshirt paired with a necktie and sunglasses for a stylish touch.
In the photos, HyunA appeared noticeably slimmer. Back in May, she mentioned she was on a diet in preparation for her comeback. She said she walks about six hours a day and is trying to eat as little as possible while maximizing her exercise.
Let’s take a closer look at the walking routine HyunA practices and its effectiveness.
Walking is one of the most accessible forms of aerobic exercise that can be done anytime and anywhere, with no special equipment required. For someone weighing 50 kg, a 30-minute walk burns about 100 kilocalories. Walking for six hours can burn roughly 1,000 kilocalories.
Aerobic exercises are especially effective for burning body fat. Brisk walking that raises your heart rate can improve cardiovascular health and stimulate muscle development, contributing to overall strength.
For those seeking faster and more noticeable weight loss, exercising on an empty stomach can be beneficial, as it speeds up fat burning. Professor Kang Jae Heon from the Department of Family Medicine at Kangbuk Samsung Hospital explained that during exercise, the body first utilizes the energy stored in the food that has been consumed. Afterward, it starts breaking down stored body fat. However, if you begin exercising while fasting, your body starts burning fat right away, making the workout more effective.
During aerobic exercise, the body primarily uses glycogen stored in the liver and muscles, as well as fat, for energy. If no food has been consumed beforehand, the body must immediately draw on its internal energy reserves.
However, there are precautions to consider when doing cardio on an empty stomach. People with diabetes who are on medication may experience hypoglycemia. Professor Kang advised that blood sugar levels can drop due to medication, and exercising while fasting can cause them to fall too low. He recommended carrying a small emergency snack and avoiding prolonged workouts on an empty stomach.
Experts also advise against drastically reducing food intake while dieting. While strict calorie restrictions may lead to rapid weight loss, they can also cause rebound weight gain (yo-yo effect). To prevent muscle loss during weight loss, it is also essential to consume a sufficient amount of protein.