A New Look at Spot Reduction

By Khanh Vy BPHE, CSCS, CPT Through scientific measures, it has been proven that Spot Reduction is possible through a new systematic approach called Biosignature Modulation. Throughout the history of Health and Fitness, “Spot Reduction” has always been seen as a myth: working on a specific muscle group to decrease the amount of fat in that area. The most common example of this is to focus on abdominal exercises in order to lose weight in the abdominal region. Countless articles and magazines have been written on how spot reduction is not possible. However, with new advancements in exercise endocrinology, combating specific fat storages in the body is now possible through “Biosignature Modulation”. Biosignature Modulation is a systematic approach to losing body fat in specific locations on the body. It was developed by Charles Poliquin through the science of comparing skin fold data against blood, urine, and saliva tests to determine a clients’ specific hormonal balance. The science behind biosignature modulation is noted through the understanding and interaction of hormones in the body. Hormones play a crucial role in weight loss as well as the overall condition of the body. Numerous studies have shown direct connection to localized fat deposition and type and amount of hormones circulating in the body. More specifically, certain hormones help us determine where and why fat is stored in an area. The test involves skin fold measurements of 12 specific sites on the body using skin callipers to determine what hormones need to be optimized and which supplements need to be used. These sites are the cheek, chin, pectoral region, triceps, umbilical, supra iliac, sub scapular, mid auxiliary, quadriceps, hamstrings, knee and the calf. Once the biosignature sites have been analyzed and it is determined that there is an excessive amount of fat in one region versus another, the hormone involved can be identified. The next step would be to make appropriate modifications in one’s diet and exercise regime and supplementation to target fat loss in that specific region. For example, if there’s an excessive amount of fat in the lower thighs, that would indicate problems with the person’s estrogenic level. In regards to one’s diet, estrogenic imbalances can be solved by consuming vegetables such as broccoli that have chemicals that can detoxify estrogen levels. In regards to supplementation, indole-3-carbinal is recommended in this example. The type of exercise recommended would be strength training and not spinning because spinning would increase the storage of intramuscular and subcutaneous fat the in the hips and thigh region. It is important to remember that Biosignature Modulation is still in the early stages of growth and further research needs to be conducted to improve and evaluate the system. However, it does represent and exciting new tool for fitness professionals to assist in combating specific sites of fat storage, challenging the myth that “spot reduction” doesn’t work. References: Jusdanis, L. (2008). Functional Applied Speed Training: 2008 NSCA-OATA Human Performance Symposium. Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Poliquin, C. (2008). Biosignature modulation, blueprint for faster fat loss. Retrieved November 30, 2008, from Charles Poliquin Website: www.charlespoliquin.com DISCLAIMER The information on www.shapehealthandwellness.com is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health-care professionals. Please consult your physician or book a consultation with SHAPE before changing your diet or exercise program, for diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and/or injuries, for advice regarding medications, and prior to making use of any of the information within our website, articles or newsletters.

 

Next >