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Sunday 7 April 2013


Fat burning myths busted

by Shikha Desai

When it comes to getting healthy or burning fat, you are fed with misinformation all the time.
Instead of being misled or discouraged or being confused on whether to believe it or not, here are a few facts on the most common fat-burning myths along with the right tips
Myth 1: No time! 
If scheduling cardio and weight training seems like too much time and effort, try combining the two. The combination of cardio and weight training not only burns calories but saves time as well. This technique called circuit training focuses on resistance training intervals along with intervals of cardio. You can create workout "stations," each featuring a different weight training exercise for a muscle or muscle group. Do each station with a maximum rest period of 30 seconds in between each exercise to keep calorie-burning at its maximum.
When it comes to getting healthy or burning fat, you are fed with misinformation all the time.
Instead of being misled or discouraged or being confused on whether to believe it or not, here are a few facts on the most common fat-burning myths along with the right tips
Myth 2: Long cardio sessions work best 
Even with the best intentions, it's not always possible or feasible to exercise for 60 minutes or longer at one time. And if you're looking to drop pounds, it's also not the most efficient way. Instead, try intervals, which involves alternating bouts of intense exercise with less-intense recovery periods. Short, intense exercise bursts burn more calories than working out at the same intensity for the same length of time. The active recovery periods allow for greater intensity during the work intervals and, subsequently, more calories are burned overall. Try the pre-programmed interval training programmes on cardio equipment, or do it yourself by alternating 30 to 60 seconds of vigorous activity with the same amount of easy exertion.
Myth 3: You should stay within the fat-burning zone when doing cardio 
Treadmills and other cardio equipment display colourful charts indicating various zones, one of which indicates a 'fat-burning' zone. These zones refer to the percentage of fat burned, not the total calories. You burn the highest percentage of fat while you're sleeping. But you're also burning the least number of calories, which is what counts towards body fat loss. Instead, look for ways to burn a greater number of calories over all and the weight and fat will automatically drop off.
Myth 4: Only cardio leads to faster weight loss 
The intensity of the workout determines how many additional calories you'll burn. Cardiovascular fitness helps lower body fat by burning more calories while you're exercising, but weight training helps burn more fat and calories even when you're relaxing. The harder the workout, the longer the after-burn effect.





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