Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Running On The Treadmill

When I got to the gym part of my workout routine includes running for 1 hour on the treadmill.I read in Men's Health magazine that doing intervals (for example:run at 6mph for 2 minutes then run at 3mph or rest for 2 minutes) will be more effective in losing weight than if I ran or walked at a steady pace.Is there any truth to this>?
5 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Hi

Most people believe that for exercise program to be effective, the body must be in continual and steady motion.

However, if we allow some period of recovery to the muscles, that proves to be more efficient in muscle building. This is the reason why most exercise experts recommend the High intensity interval training (HIIT) as compared to the steady-state cardio exercises.

HIIT involves alternating high intensity short duration efforts and then a more spread out casual effort (the “recovery interval”), over a 15- to 30-minute session. This leads to burning of more calories than the steady state cardio.

You should however also consult your physical trainer as to what kind of exercise programme would be more suitable for you.

For more information you may refer to these links-

http://exercise.about.com/cs/cardioworkouts/l/blcardiomachine.htm and
http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/Trainingarticles/lylemcdonald-ste.html

Regards

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
So should I do it at higher speeds (8mph) perhaps? It said you gotta get your heartrate up in my case to like 198 I believe.
Helpful - 0
598026 tn?1222679706
yes ive heard that too that having your heart rate go up and down like that while working out is good for burning more calories, and strengthening your heart.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I heard intervals is good to fluctuate your heart rate and keep your metabolism moving which helps in weight loss.
Helpful - 0
172023 tn?1334672284
I've heard the same thing.  I do interval training for that exact reason.  I'm not trying to lose weight, I'm maintaining...but I hear its better simply for your cardiac conditioning, too.  
Helpful - 0

You are reading content posted in the Exercise & Fitness Community

Top Healthy Living Answerers
Avatar universal
Arlington, VA
Learn About Top Answerers
Popular Resources
14 super-healthy foods that are worth the hype
Small changes make a big impact with these easy ways to cut hundreds of calories a day.
Forget the fountain of youth – try flossing instead! Here are 11 surprising ways to live longer.
From STD tests to mammograms, find out which screening tests you need - and when to get them.
Tips and moves to ease backaches
Here are 12 simple – and fun! – ways to boost your brainpower.