If you’re looking for a boost to your calorie burn, try adding just a few short, fast-paced bursts of speed (called intervals) to your regular walking, biking, swimming, or other aerobic routine. During higher intensity exercise intervals, more muscle fibers get worked, burning more calories even after you’ve completed your session.
Even better news, you don’t have to be an athlete to reap the benefit of intervals. According to exercise physiologist Martin Gibala, Ph.D., if you’re a walker, pick up the pace for 20 – 30 seconds, then slow down to your usual pace for a minute or two, and then repeat. Start with just one, two, or three intervals. As you grow stronger, add more intervals and make them longer and more intense.
*Always consult your physician prior to beginning an exercise program.
Tags: Physical Activity, Strategies
