Then as you turn in every direction, you see somebody doing slow motion cardio talking on a cell phone, someone doing the 1000 reps ab workout or the absolute worst form on just about any exercise you care to mention.

Now this isn't to slam anybody, but if you're goal is to really get in shape and drop fat you must pay attention to at least these three basic exercise fundamentals.

1. The primary component for the reduction of fat in the belly area so you can see abdominal muscle is how you choose to eat, not 1000 sit ups or a grape fruit diet. There is an absolute need to balance quantity of food calories coming in with the amount of energy expended going out. At the same time the nutrients you choose should be of the highest quality you can afford.

Real foods, not supplements or the latest fat burner, but whole foods that existed 3,000 years ago before any type of processing, additives or preservatives are added. This isn't very technical but a great start.

2. When beginning a cardio program and you are a beginner, meaning no experience and have not exercised before, start with a simple 3 day per week routine of 30 minutes. Please make the investment and get a heart rate monitor because the device you grip while doing cardio on machines is not accurate. Any brand that has a chest strap will suffice once it's properly programmed. From here look to have a training heart rate that may fluctuate in your 65 -85% max heart rate range during your cardio session.

Once you've conditioned your body at this level, additional time and days may be added, but try the high intensity intervals first. This strategy will keep your cardio session time down and fat loss results high.

3. The strength training component is also very important because your goal is to build as much muscle as you possible can each time you train. Key here is SAFELY. Have a professional show you correct form. A book or magazine is nice, but most times the interpretation of what we see and then what we look like while we do what we saw is miles apart! Lots of ideas exist with the best type of program you should do are out there, but the goal should match the program.

Meaning, if you want size and strength, then lifting heavier weights in a power lifting or bodybuilding type may be best for you. If you are a specific type of athlete then exercises based on that sports required movement patterns should be the course of action. What ever the choice a training log to document your journey of success and a mentor or coach will ensure injury free continued positive results for your entire fitness career.