Interval training for maximum fat loss
Interval training is a great technique for two key reasons. First of all, it uses the active/rest principle, which allows you to condition your body more quickly to achieve your fitness goals more quickly. Second, it utilizes both the aerobic and anaerobic aspects of exercise, burning more calories and fat than traditional steady-state cardio.
Sprint/Rest
Interval training has two basic parts: the sprint phase and the rest phase.
During the sprint phase, you will be running or walking briskly at a pace between 1.5 and 2 times your resting pace. The length of the sprint phase is up to you, but it should be shorter than or equal to the length of your rest phase.
The intensity of the rest phase should be a manageable pace that you feel comfortable with over a longer period of time. Example: If your running speed is 6 mph, your resting walking speed may be between 2.5 and 4 mph.
The best part is the fact that these phases can be dynamically scalable. You don’t have to run for the same length each time; sometimes you can run a longer distance or at a faster pace, or you can slow down if you start to feel tired.
Combination of aerobic and anaerobic
Aerobic exercise burns calories and fat. It also conditions your cardiovascular system, increasing blood flow to your vital organs, resulting in a boost in your metabolism. By adding the anaerobic component to the mix, your body is using your glycogen stores and body fat to provide you with the energy for the sprint phase; burn more fat and calories in less time!
Additional benefits
As if burning fat wasn’t benefit enough, interval training can be used to improve many aspects of your overall workout:
•When used as a conditioning program, it can reduce the stress placed on your joints and muscles, helping you avoid injury.
•You can spice up your exercise plan; You’ll find that time flies when you’re interval training. No more boring cardio exercises!
•In fact, you can cut the time you spend exercising in half due to the simultaneous aerobic/anaerobic stimulus. Who isn’t trying to save time in their day?
Used to enhance your cardio training or as a weapon to lose fat, interval training can give your daily exercise route a serious boost. Good luck!