What does cardio training entail and when should it be carried out?
The aim of cardio training is to provide adequate oxygenation to the entire body. This is achieved by maintaining a constant, elevated heart rate. The ideal heart rate to maintain during such a workout is 60-70% of the maximum heart rate. This can be determined using special tools or by using the following formula: 220 - age = approximate maximum heart rate. For example, if someone is 25 years old, their maximum heart rate is around 195 beats per minute. 60-70% of this value gives a range of 117-136 beats per minute, in which the training should be performed. There are many ways to perform cardio training, and the most common division is training on equipment and outdoor training. Most people use equipment available in gyms such as treadmills, exercise bikes, rowing machines, and stair climbers. Cardio training on equipment has some advantages: the workout can be done regardless of the weather, and there is no need to purchase an additional heart rate monitor as it is built into most equipment. However, the disadvantages are primarily monotony and lower oxygen concentration than in open spaces. When it comes to outdoor training, the most commonly performed exercises are jogging, cycling, swimming, or fast walking. The main advantage of outdoor training is the constantly changing scenery depending on the chosen route, which reduces the risk of boredom. In addition, outdoor training provides better oxygenation of the body, especially in natural environments such as parks, forests, or lakes. So when should cardio training be performed to most effectively deal with excess weight? Studies have shown that the best time to perform cardio training is immediately after strength training, when blood sugar levels are stable and can even be slightly lowered. However, other studies have shown that cardio training is only for burning calories during its execution - so there is no difference when it is performed, as the deepening of the calorie deficit is what matters. However, if some studies recommend performing cardio after strength training, and others claim that the time of day does not matter, it is best to perform the workout on an empty stomach or immediately after strength training.
What are interval trainings truly and when should they be executed?
Interval trainings are a form of exercises that are based on the demands of the anaerobic system and resemble traditional strength training. They require a regular, forced change of intense and moderate efforts. An example of interval training is 30 seconds of sprinting, followed by 60 seconds of rest. To be effective, 5-10 or even 15 such cycles should be performed, depending on the level of training. The intensity of the training can be regulated by changing the time of the effort or increasing the number of cycles. For example, if someone performs 7 cycles of 30 seconds of sprinting and 60 seconds of rest, they can try to increase the time of the sprint to 45 seconds and reduce the rest to 45 seconds. There are many ways and methods of performing interval training. Various equipment such as dumbbells or weights can be used, and different strength exercises can be performed. Exercise circuits can also be performed, which consist of 2-5 different exercises, followed by 30 seconds of active recovery such as light jumping or box sprint. One of the most popular methods is Tabata training, which involves performing exercises with maximum intensity for 4 minutes. When should interval training be performed? It is best to perform it on a day when no strength training is being performed. This allows for the maximization of the potential for post-workout calorie burning while simultaneously reducing the load on the nervous system.
Advantages and disadvantages of cardio training
Cardio training has a number of advantages. One of its main benefits is that it keeps the cardiovascular system in good condition. The fact that it is beneficial to health should encourage its inclusion in the training program. It is enough to do 20 minutes of cardio training 2-3 times a week after strength training to have a positive effect on the heart. Another advantage is that the cardiovascular system is kept in good condition, which speeds up the release of toxins. The fact that it is beneficial to health should encourage its inclusion in the training program. It is enough to do 20 minutes of cardio training 2-3 times a week after strength training to have a positive effect on the heart.
Pros and cons of interval training
The biggest advantage of interval training is time efficiency. The number of calories burned during a 45-minute cardio workout can be replaced by a 10- or 15-minute intensive interval training. However, not everyone can manage that. Other benefits include a positive impact on hormonal regulation, as long as no intervals are performed immediately after strength training. Carefully planned intervals can increase the production of anabolic hormones. Moreover, intervals, as opposed to cardio training, increase fat tissue utilization 15-30 hours after the end of the workout! The condition is to perform intervals at maximal intensity to increase the tlenową length. However, not everyone can perform intervals. Individuals suffering from heart disease, circulatory system problems or other chronic diseases and freshly after an injury should avoid this type of training due to the risk of health complications. This training is mainly based on submaksymalny pulse, which not everyone can endure.
The most effective way to reduce fat
The best approach to reducing fat tissue is a holistic one. It is recommended to combine strength training with several cardio sessions and 1-2 interval training per week (sick individuals should avoid intense intervals). It is also important to increase daily physical activity, by changing habits (such as walking to the store instead of driving, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and choosing cycling or walking instead of public transportation).
Mere exercise is not enough for weight reduction
One can conduct strength training four times a week, combined with four cardio training sessions. Additionally, one can conduct two interval sessions and commute to work on a bicycle instead of a car. However, it is likely that one will not achieve the desired results without adhering to a proper diet with a negative calorie balance. The fact that someone is conducting intense workouts is not sufficient if the body is automatically demanding more nutrients. It is difficult to determine which factor is more important, the proper diet or the proper workout, as both are essential and complement each other. Therefore, it is recommended to combine both and be consistent in order to quickly achieve the desired results.
Summary
Cardiovascular training is a form of exercise that supports health and fat metabolism. It only consumes energy while being performed. This form of exercise is suitable for everyone, regardless of their health status. Interval training is a form of exercise that combines maximum effort with moderate effort. Energy consumption can last up to 30 hours after the workout. However, it is not recommended for everyone as it puts a significant strain on the cardiovascular system. The main disadvantages of cardiovascular training are: long duration, lack of variety, and insufficient impact on the hormonal system. The main advantages of cardiovascular training include a positive impact on the cardiovascular system and accelerated post-workout recovery. The advantages of interval training include, above all, intense energy consumption up to 30 hours after the end of the effort and the relatively short duration of the training. The main disadvantages of interval training are: strong strain on the nervous system and the fact that not everyone can perform it. To effectively burn fat, one should combine a balanced diet with strength training, cardiovascular training, and increased daily activity. Healthy individuals can confidently add 1-2 interval training sessions per week.