Fat Burning Workout Myths Debunked
Check out the average treadmill and you may well see a button labeled fat burning. This is typically the reason most people start exercising in the first place, so it makes sense that these specific types of workouts would be in place. The big question is whether or not they actually work.
If you’ve listened to the fitness pros talk in recent years, you will likely have noticed that not all are in agreement about the best way to burn fat and lose weight. The general rule of thumb used to be that a 20 minute cardio workout would help you get at the fat. People ran with that and placed all of their attention on long, low-intensity workouts in an attempt to melt off the weight. That’s what you’re seeing in action when you see someone at your local gym taking a leisurely stroll on one of the treadmills. But, you may want to ask yourself, "Is that really the best fat burning workout?"
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) May Work Best
Research has shown that high intensity interval training (HIIT) offers the most effective fat burning workout. Simply put, this type of training comes down to two specific things, which are challenge and recovery, both of which are repeated over and over. If we take your exercise routine back to the treadmill and use HIIT, you might spend most of your time walking at a brisk pace, interspersed with short sprints of a minute or two, where you run at 90% of your maximum heart rate.
This begs the question as to why those modern machines even bother with the “fat burning” button we mentioned earlier. It’s there for those who have a different reason for working out, which is one that requires a low-intensity workout. If fat loss is your end goal, then you need to ditch the low-intensity workouts in favor of the “interval training” or HIIT button that is now often found beside the other button.
Also, keep in mind that you don't need machines at all to accomplish a great, fat burning HIIT workout. Boxing, running, squats, kicks, lunges and weights are all excellent ways to get in an effective, efficient, calorie burning, fat burning workout session.
Always Keep Your Fitness Goals in Mind
The most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for your own fitness equipment; look for machines that incorporate the features that you need to meet your specific fitness goals. Don't spend money on bells and whistles that don't serve your needs. Know exactly why you want to exercise and the goals you want to attain. Then, buy equipment that will help your reach those goals. You’ll find a variety of great candidates at RX Fitness Equipment, and we recommend starting your search by checking out the great training equipment offered by Bodyguard, Spirit Fitness, TRUE and SportsArt.
RX Fitness Equipment Can Help You Find the Right Path
If taking off some excess fat is your main goal and you'd like to discuss it with a professional, RX Fitness works with hundreds of nutritionists, coaches and personal trainers. We'd be happy to refer you to one who can help. If you're looking for a great selection of fitness equipment and accessories of all kinds, we carry the top brands to fit every goal and budget and we're here to make your fitness routine more productive. Stop by any of our three store locations or give us a call. And don't forget to check out Tim's best-selling book, Fitness Equipment – A Shopper's Guide, available at Amazon and other online book sellers as well as in our store.
Contact us for a free consultation or stop by any of our three stores and take something for a test drive. We’re here to help.
