Tired of endless Cardio?

Long bouts of cardio seem to be the most prescribed method of weight loss when it pertains to exercise. While there is plenty of benefit from getting on the treadmill, or elliptical, or just jogging around the block for an hour or more, it can become mentally exhausting to be doing something so mindless for so long.

So, here is a new way to approach your cardio, which hopefully will help you reach your best body in 2011.

Take the interval approach. Intervals are "sprints" done in short 15-30 second bursts, followed by a light jog that serves as an active recovery phase. This pattern is done 8-10 times consecutively with as little rest as possible between sprints. When first starting out you may notice you need to jog/walk for a minute or two before you feel comfortable enough to sprint again. This is fine. Just remember to push yourself, and as you progress through the plan gradually decrease your rest time. For an ever greater challenge, increase the amount of time you are "bursting" so that you are running hard for a minute, and lightly jogging for another.

This method spikes calorie consumption every-time you sprint, using up unwanted fat stores as energy. So, when consistent enough with training, you will actually see increased fat-loss as a result of your workout. How awesome is that?

There are some key points to remember though

1. Always, ALWAYS warm up with a light walk into a jog for roughly 5 to 10 minutes prior to attempting an interval. Blood needs to begin circulating more locally to the legs, and the body must be ready for an intense exercise
2. Always cool down after intervals. The body is an a very revved up state, and will benefit from a cool down consisting of a 5 minute walk, and some stretching of the legs, core, and hip muscles. 
3. Make every workout harder. Either adjust time of sprint, time of rest, or add more intervals to the overall session.
4. Don't ever quit just because you are tired. Intervals are absolutely exhausting, BUT THEY WORK. Use the power of your mind and soul to push yourself through that workout. I promise you that you will feel outstanding when your done. 

One safety note as well: If you have been identified by your physician as overweight, or obese, please consult the physician prior to undertaking intervals. Not everyone is ready for intervals as they are an advanced form of training.

So, go ahead and save a little time; the average interval session lasts around a half hour, counting warm-up and cool-down. Compare this to the equally effective hour of steady walking and you'll find your body reaches a new level in a record time.

Good luck.

You don't have to run forever, but you have to stay fit...forever.