Burning Fat with HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)
Interval training has long been known to be really effective in burning fat. The concept is very simple; whatever exercise you are doing, you increase the intensity (go faster) for a short period of time before returning to your normal speed. You then repeat this process several times during the workout.
High Intensity Interval Training (known as HIIT) is really popular with personal trainers and a lot of well known exercise programs. It can be done with several forms of exercise including running, walking, cycling, skipping or when using machines such as cross trainers or step machines.
To put it simply, HIIT is basically this:
#1 – You start off your routine at one pace for a few minutes (of course you should always warm up before starting any workout routine)
#2 – Then you go as fast and hard as you can for 30 seconds (or maybe 10-15 seconds if you are just beginning).
#3 – Then you return to the normal pace and get your breath back!
#4 – Then you go hard and fast again and keep repeating this process until you start to feel the pace.
Ideally a HIIT workout will last for around 15 minutes. This is more than enough time to give your body a good workout and burn off enough calories to make a difference.
Why Do HIIT Workouts Work?
These types of high intensity training routines work because they force the body to produce more growth hormone during the workout. This hormone has been proven to greatly aid the fat burning process. Research has shown that the body produces almost 3 times the amount as compared to low level intensity training.
How Often Should You Use Interval Training?
Although it’s been proven to help burn fat, it can be harmful to use interval training too many times a week. Your body still needs to rest between workouts to effectively repair itself. So you should do no more than 3 HIIT workouts a week. 2 is perfectly fine and will help you burn fat fast.
To Conclude
HIIT workouts can help you burn fat faster than performing standard workouts. By incorporating them on days when you normally do cardio work, it will help you lose more weight. Just don’t do them too often as it will actually harm your weight loss. Be sure to have at least 2 rest days a week and give your body time to recoup and repair. This is essential is any healthy fitness regime.
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