This topic has been of great debate for a long time. The myth is that high intensity interval training burns 9x the amount of fat that steady state cardio does. That has never been scientifically proven. Putting the scientific debate aside there are some tremendous advantages to interval training that the average person should be aware of.
- Saves time. Most intervals last about 20 minutes in comparison to 1 to 2 hours on the treadmill with steady cardio.
- Stimulates a greater release of growth hormone. Studies have shown that intense interval training produces growth hormone which build lean muscle mass.
- Better for your joints. The intervals should be done on alternate days not back to back and we usually recommend for about 3-4 days out of the week. There is also less exposure on the joints because it takes less time to complete.
- Metabolic disturbance. Interval training increases metabolism and post-exercise oxygen consumption which has been shown to burn fat for 24 hours after the interval bout.
- Creates variety. Interval training can be done with body weight exercises, on exercise machines, with medicine balls, with weights, and outdoors. Interval training is an effective method that has many tools.
