The Truth About Cardio Training

Why long cardio workouts are not the best way to lose weight.

One of the fitness training principles I mentioned in my first post Weight Loss Programmes that Work was High Intensity Interval Training.

Many instructors still recommend long cardio workouts, training in the "fat burning zone" to lose weight. You may well have followed their advice only to find that you have not achieved the body shape you crave. The reason for this is that while training at this low intensity will indeed burn fat, it only does so at a low level and only during the time you are exercising.

In addition, Scientist believe that this excessive steady state endurance training increases free radical production in the body, can degenerate joints, reduce immune function, cause muscle wasting, and can cause a pro-inflammatory response in the body that can potentially lead to chronic diseases.

Now, apart from all the detrimental effects on your health resulting from low intensity cardio workouts, training that actually causes muscle wastage can never result in weight loss or rather fat loss in the long term. Only by improving the conditional of your muscles will you increase your metabolism and burn fat for 24 hours or more. This can be achieved through High Intensity Interval Training in conjunction with High Intensity Resistance Training.

To summarize, some of the potential benefits of High Intensity Interval Training compared to steady state endurance training are as follows:

• Improved cardiovascular health
• Increased anti-oxidant protection
• Improved immune function
• Reduced risk for joint wear and tear
• Increased muscularity (not muscle bulk, just increased definition and tone)
• Increased residual metabolic rate following exercise
• Increased fat burning during and following exercise
• Lower drop out rates as workouts are less boring!

To find out more about High Intensity Interval Training and how to introduce it into your workouts check out the following sites:

How to get Ripped Abs - this site provides a tried and tested method for losing fat and developing stunning abs. Check out Fat Burning Mistake #3 for endorsement of High Intensity Interval Training.

Turbulence Training - this is an excellent all round site using High Intensity Interval Training workouts to help you lose weight and get in great shape.

Until next time . . . Get Inspired, Motivated, Empowered!

P.S. I hope you find my blog informative and useful. Any feedback is most appreciated.

Warning: If you have any concerns over your ability to exercise or you have any known medical conditions it is always recommended to consult with your doctor before undertaking any exercise programme.