Make The Most of Your “Cardio”
Most people don’t exercise at the appropriate intensity. And when it comes to cardio, almost everyone takes the wrong approach. Exhibit A:
What’s needed is a change in mindset about cardiovascular training…and attire! So from here on out, don’t think “cardio;” think conditioning.
With a focus on conditioning, it doesn’t make much sense to run long distances for extended periods of time (i.e., 60 minutes or more), let alone in the buff! Research shows you get the best bang for your buck with intervals. Interval training not only burns more calories during the session itself, but may also allow you to continue to burn calories for up to 24 hours post-exercise. In addition to this metabolic increase, you sharpen your central nervous system with intervals, enabling you to work harder and burn even more calories.
When done correctly, interval training should take no longer than 15-20 minutes. It’s called working smart and working efficiently. If you’re able to read or talk on the phone while on the treadmill or other cardio machine, you’re wasting your time.
You don’t have to be Kim Yu-Na or Lindsey Vonn to start an interval program, either. If you aren’t in good shape, you can begin by simply walking slow and then fast, or walking and then running. Start with just five minutes and work your way up from there.
So, today’s lesson is: “Think Conditioning, NOT Cardio.”
And don’t forget your shorts.
Filed under: cardiovascular exercise, exercise research, fat loss, workout tips
I’m definitely all for intervals. After studying the research, I’m also coming around on running bareFOOT… The funniest thing about that picture is that all she has ON are shoes!
Great post!!! This immediately made me think of Tabata intervals. I see too many people at the gym spending unnecessary time and energy doing cardio. As you mentioned, a better solution is to increase the intensity of the workout through interval type training. This will not only not only lead to greater gains but will minimize time at the gym. I know that if I’m ever pressed for time and want to ride my bike, I complete an interval routine which takes only 20 minutes. Most people spend this much time on the toilet…
Keep up the good work and I look forward to reading more posts