Steady-State Cardio v. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)

by | Mar 26, 2023 | Blog, Cardio, Science, Uncategorized

oxford personal trainer

Steady-State Cardio v HIIT – Which is Better?

Steady-state cardio (SSC) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are two very different types of exercise. While SSC is typically done at a moderate level of intensity for an extended period of time, HIIT involves bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise.

So, which one is better? The answer actually depends on your fitness goals and personal preferences.

However, here are some factors to consider when comparing steady-state cardio to HIIT:

Time Efficiency

HIIT typically takes less time to complete than steady-state cardio because of the high-intensity bursts that are involved. In fact, research has shown that just 15-20 minutes of HIIT can produce similar results to 45-60 minutes of steady-state cardio. Therefore, if you are short on time, HIIT may be the better choice for you.

Caloric Burn

HIIT has been shown to burn more calories in a shorter amount of time than steady-state cardio. This is because the high-intensity bursts increase your metabolism and keep it elevated throughout the day. HIIT also depletes glycogen stores in the muscles quicker than SSC, making it easier to achieve thermogenesis (burning of fat). However, steady-state cardio is still effective for burning calories and can be a great option for those who enjoy longer, more relaxing workouts.

Cardiovascular Health

Both types of exercise are great for improving cardiovascular health. However, SSC is typically better for increasing endurance and cardiovascular capacity, while HIIT is better for improving overall cardiovascular function and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Muscle Building

HIIT is great for building lean muscle mass, as it involves strength-training exercises in addition to cardio. Steady-state cardio, on the other hand, can actually break down muscle mass if done for too long or too frequently. Visualise, and compare the physiques of marathon runners v. 100 meter sprinters. The difference in overall muscle mass speaks for itself.

Injury Risk

HIIT can be more intense and may pose a higher risk of injury if not done properly. Steady-state cardio, while still requiring proper form and technique, is generally lower impact and less likely to cause injury.

In conclusion, both steady-state cardio and HIIT are effective forms of exercise that offer different benefits. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual goals and preferences. Mixing both types of exercise into your workout routine is also a great option to get the best of both worlds.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25162652/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22201691/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17414804/ 

Did you enjoy this article? Here’s another!: https://immortal-training.com/10-ways-to-boost-your-metabolism/

Insulin Resistance

by | May 3, 2017 | Blog, Nutrition

Insulin Resistance

Do you crave sugar in the form of sweets, fizzy drinks and general junk food? Do you crave chocolate?

It may be that you were not born with a “sweet tooth” at all. In fact, it’s most likely down to inefficient insulin production and transport inside your body.

Here are some more symptoms:

– Unexplainable thirst
– Frequent urination
– Hunger even after just eating
– Unexplainable fatigue
– Dark skin patches around the neck & chest area
– High blood pressure
– Hyper-excitability
– Lack of motivation
– Mood swings
– Insomnia and/of disturbed sleep
– Feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep

If most of your symptoms are on the top half of that list then you are deficient in chromium. Supplement 20mcg/day and the problems will go away. If you are in the second half you need magnesium. Take 500-750mg every night before bed.

For profession medical information and a more in depth understand of insulin resistance there is a great article written by Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD.

Go here:
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/mobileart.asp?articlekey=30653

✌🏾

Tay Gabbidon
Personal Trainer & Nutrition Therapist
Oxford, England
www.immortal-training.com