What are the benefits of interval training...

francis1425

compared to just running for cardio? I have been running for my cardio portion of my workout and have been hearing all about the interval running......I was just wondering if someone could tell me the benefits of switching it up or the pros and cons of each.....I just want to get the best workout while I am at the gym. Thank you for any input!

boobee32

The benefits are that it keeps your heart rate going at different levels....therefore your body never knows how hard you are goin to push it and for how long,...therefore it doesnt get into that comfortable zone and just coast along so to speak.....

dandydalek

Here's an excellent article talking about this issue:

http://www.active.com/running/Articles/How-to-Burn-More-Calories-on-Your-Run.htm?cmp=291&memberid=114708165&lyrisid=21692134

kdiamond

The best benefit is you can do more work in less time burning the same (if not more) calories!

Also, it is much less boring than droning away on the same cardio machine for 45 minutes.

sunshine79

Very similar to weight training, intense interval training raises your RMR so your body is burning more calories whilst you rest (for up to 24hrs I've read)