If a trainer tells you interval training must be done in 30-second… or one-minute… or five-minute increments, he’s misinformed. Research shows that all types of intervals will help you burn belly fat better than slow cardio – and there’s never been a "head-to-head" study comparing interval workouts of various lengths. But, based on my experience, I have an opinion: I like simple 30-second intervals for fat-loss workouts.
If you do intervals on a cardio machine, it’s easy to stick to the 30-second interval timing, followed by a 60-90 second recovery at a much slower pace. If the intervals were any shorter, it would be tough to change the settings on the machine fast enough.
Any type of interval training for fat loss is going to be better than slow cardio – and it allows for faster workouts.
[Ed. Note: If you are new to exercise but want to lose weight, start with a beginner bodyweight-training program for 2-6 weeks, such as the one in Craig's Turbulence Training manual. You will also get specific step-by-step instructions on how to do intervals at any fitness level. Learn more here.
And to get more articles on how simple lifestyle choices can improve your health, sign up for ETR's natural health newsletter.]
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