According to a recent study, it is more effective to lose weight than to make short bursts of high intensity exercises.
The benefits of interval training on health have been studied several times. Previous research has shown that it can help speed up your metabolism.
Interval training consists of short periods of intense exercise followed by brief periods of rest. This can be done during running, swimming, cycling or some other form of cardiovascular exercise.
Join Independent spirits
For exclusive items, events and an ad-free reading for only £ 5.99 $ 6.99 $ 9.99
a month
Get the best of L & # 39; Independent
With an Independent Minds subscription for only £ 5.99 $ 6.99 $ 9.99
a month
Get the best of L & # 39; Independent
Without ads – for just £ 5.99 $ 6.99 $ 9.99
a month
Despite the known benefits of interval training, some people may still believe that exercising for longer periods of time is a better way to lose weight.
Researchers at the Federal University of Goiás, Brazil, conducted a study to determine if interval training was a preferable form of exercise to try to lose a few pounds.
The team badyzed data from more than 36 studies for their survey, which were published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. They evaluated 576 men and 522 women in total.
All participants in the study had different levels of fitness, with ages ranging from 10 to 70 years old.
They had all been exercising for at least four weeks in their respective studies, some doing interval workouts and others doing longer workouts for about 30 to 45 minutes at a time.
In badyzing the data, the scientists found that all participants had lost weight while working, doing regular interval training or moderate exercise.
However, those who were in HIIT training had a 28.5% greater weight reduction.
Interval training resulted in an average weight loss of 1.58 kg, compared to the average weight loss of 1.13 kg attributed to moderate exercise and low weight exercise. intensity.
However, the team noted that interval training may not be an ideal form of exercise for everyone.
"It's important to be aware of the risks and possible warnings badociated with higher intensity training," they said.
"For example, this could increase the risk of injury and impose a higher cardiovascular stress.The adhesion should also be examined, because higher intensity protocols can cause more discomfort."
Support freethinking journalism and subscribe to Independent Minds
According to the findings of the study, sprint interval training was the most effective form of exercise for losing weight.
It has been noted to be even more effective when combined with regular moderate exercise.
The NHS recommends that adults do two types of exercise each week, one based on aerobics and the other on strength.
For adults between the ages of 19 and 64, it is recommended that you do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as cycling or walking, each week, in addition to weight training at least two days a week.
Alternatively, it is also suggested to adults to do 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activities, such as running or tennis, each week, by inserting two days of strength training.