Long vs short cardio workout?

nytrifisoul
nytrifisoul Posts: 499 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I usually try to grind out long cardio workouts. Lately i have been doing short stationary bike workouts. 10 minute vigorous 23/mph level 4. I noticed that i can get atleast 6 or more of these short workouts a day without any effect on my knees and barely breaking a sweat. My question, is this effective for calorie burn? Can i estimate 6x 10 min workouts the same as one 60 minute workout?
Is there more cool down burn in 6x10 vs 60x1? Really looking for some input from more experienced members here. Thanks

Replies

  • robowolfmega1986
    robowolfmega1986 Posts: 10 Member
    A workout is a workout. It really doesn't matter what you do as long as your lifestyle matches the exercise. Sweating is just a cooling mechanism so your body doesn't overheat. It's no indication of calorie burning, but perhaps a release of sodium and water from your pores. Also, it depends on your fitness goal. Are you looking to be set for endurance or agility? If you need endurance, Long cardio is your best friend. I am currently doing half marathon training and running between 3 - 9 with a two day rest. In turn, I am looking for endurance. But if you are only looking to increase agility, then short cardio would be better as it prepares your body for sharper speed. Also, the truth in calorie burn is your intensity. The more force you use to push your body, the more calories burned in shorter time. The less force you use gives less in correlation to time. I ran 9 miles at 12 min/mile and burned 1,079 in 2 hours.
  • shazbox1
    shazbox1 Posts: 175 Member
    As far as calories go, it should be the same. If you are interested in getting some good fitness gains without a long workout, look into interval training.
  • nytrifisoul
    nytrifisoul Posts: 499 Member
    As far as calories go, it should be the same. If you are interested in getting some good fitness gains without a long workout, look into interval training.

    thanks. the poster above didnt read my thread and apparently didnt read my exercise diary.

    I am just looking to mix things up and cut back on the long workouts to let my body heal up, and short bursts seem to be helping in that respect. i was just curious about the calorie burn.

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