|Featured article: Interval Training for Weight Loss
The theory behind interval training is this: By mixing bursts
of high intensity work with low intensity periods of recovery, you're
overloading both the aerobic and anaerobic systems at the same time,
getting the benefits of both aspects of training simultaneously. You can realistically get a complete weight loss workout in thirty minutes with
How is it done?
Begin as you would on any other day. Start at an easy pace and gradually
increase your heart rate for at least five minutes. You can monitor
this by taking your pulse for fifteen seconds and multiplying it by
four or using a heart rate monitor When you're sufficiently warmed
up, you're ready for a burst of high intensity work. If you're on
a treadmill, break into a jog or a sprint, depending on what "high
intensity" means to you.
During the high intensity periods, you're decreasing your body's ability
to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. You begin to feel the "burn"
as your body eliminates lactic acid (a toxic by-product) and your
muscles begin to lose their ability to contract. You wouldn't physically
be able to maintain this level of intensity for long.
When you begin to wear your muscles out, decrease the intensity level
to something that you could maintain for a longer period.
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