So based on that logic, something called interval training neatly fits in
with the overall plan. Interval training is simply a adding high-energy
burning component to your exercise plan on an infrequent, or interval,
basis.
For example, you may be at a stage where you can jog for 20 minutes
every other day, and thus put your heart into a cardiovascular zone during
this time.
This, obviously, is going to help you boost your metabolism and thus burn
calories/energy. Yet you can actually burn disproportionately more
calories if, during that 20 minute jog, you add a 30 second or 1 minute
sprint.
Why? Because during this 30 seconds or 1 minute, you give your body a bit
of a jolt.
Not an unhealthy jolt; remember, we’re talking about quick bursts here,
not suddenly racing around the track or through the park! By giving your
body an interval jolt, it automatically – and somewhat unexpectedly – has
to turn things up a notch.
And to compensate for your extra energy requirements, the body will burn
more calories.
It’s essential for you to always keep in mind that interval training only
works when it’s at intervals. This may seem like a strange thing to say
(and even difficult to understand), but it’s actually very straightforward.