Interval training is an excellent way to get the most out of your workout time. It works your heart and lungs together by breaking down lactic acid and giving back oxygen to the muscles. When this happens, the aerobic system takes over and begins converting stored carbohydrates into energy. At the same time, new capillaries are being formed to carry oxygen to the muscles and strengthen the heart muscle. This improved cardiovascular system improves athletic performance and overall health. The time you spend exercising is more efficient, too, which can help you achieve your fitness goals faster.
One of the most important benefits of interval training is that you can customize it to your own workout needs. You can set the ratio of work and recovery so that your heart rate reaches an appropriate level during both periods. Then, you can vary the duration of each interval to match your goals and fitness levels. For example, if you are a sprinter, try increasing the work intervals to four minutes, and reduce the rest periods to five minutes.
Increasing the intensity and duration of intervals will increase your fitness levels. Start at a level about five minutes below your maximum heart rate and gradually increase the intensity. This can be done for several sets. To increase your intensity, you need to be flexible and supple in your joints. You can do this by performing the recommended stretches.
Another variation of interval training is called high-intensity interval training (HIIT). It consists of short, intense movements that raise your heart rate to 80% of its maximum, followed by short recovery periods. High-intensity interval training was developed in the 1950s and was used by elite Olympic athletes to improve their performance.
If you have medical conditions, consult your doctor before starting any workout routine. Interval training is an excellent way to increase your energy level while burning fat. It is an excellent way to get an intense workout with little time. However, it is important to remember that circuit training and high-intensity interval training are not the same thing.
