Want to Burn More Fat? High Intensity Interval Training Versus Long Slow Cardio

Most people know that in order to have a healthy body and the weight loss results that they desire, it is absolutely essential to work out on a regular basis. However, the way in which you choose to work out will have a direct effect on your results. Most people I see in the gym are performing low intensity, long duration cardio with the goal of burning off extra fat, but when it comes to burning fat, intensity is so important. Now imagine being able to burn more fat by performing less exercise. When you perform high intensity interval training your body is able to burn more calories in a much shorter period of time because you are exercising at a much higher intensity. High Intensity Interval training is a type of physical activity that consists of alternated periods of high and low intensity exercise. It's based upon the idea that your body will eventually start to get used to cardio exercise if it's always done at the same speed. In order to get a more effective workout, you must up your intensity and really push yourself. One of the most appealing aspects of interval training is that because each workout session is performed at a much higher intensity, you'll need to workout for a shorter period of time. Instead of spending an hour performing cardio, you will only need to spend 20-30 minutes (excluding the warm up and cool down). Due to the intense nature of high intensity interval training it should only be performed 2-3 times per week. In addition, training sessions need to be spaced out evenly. For instance, performing high intensity interval training on Monday and Thursday or Monday, Wednesday, and Friday would be good choices because these schedules give your body an even amount of rest in between workouts. It is important for beginners to consult with their physician and verify that they are in good enough shape to be able to handle workouts of an increased intensity. The take home message is that high intensity interval training will allow you to workout smarter, not longer.