Interval Training Workouts

The methods used to get people in shape are getting better every day. We’re discovering new things, and rediscovering old ones. These days technology can provide us with many unique and fun workouts.

However, you don’t need all the latest ‘gadgets and gizmos’ to get a fun and effective workout. All you really need is the knowledge of simple technique and some good old fashioned work ethic. One method of getting fit that’s been around for a little while now is called Interval Training.

Increasing the Intensity

Interval Training workouts consist of exercising at different paces throughout a workout. It’s really an awesome concept. An easy example is to think of an Interval Training workout that is done with running as the only exercise involved. If you go to the park and run across the long way of the field, and then proceed to walk the short way this is a type of interval training. Another way to do it is to use time. One minute of running fast followed by one minute of jogging on the treadmill.

Work Hard then Rest and Repeat

Both of these are different types of Interval Training workouts, and they are both very good for your body. The reason they are is because when you are running hard you are pushing your body to the limit. Challenging ourselves is what makes us become better. Then during the walking or jogging phase the body has a chance to recuperate some of that lost energy. It’s fantastic!

Although it’s more difficult then running or jogging at the same speed for a certain amount of time, it makes the body much stronger. In a way, it’s like weight training for the heart and lungs. Weight training can be considered a form of interval training because you work hard on a set and then you rest. After the rest period you do another set.

Baby Steps: Ease into the Training

So essentially what you’re doing with Interval Training workouts is applying that same concept to your cardiovascular exercises. If you want to get really specific with your intervals then a treadmill will help you do that. On a treadmill you can do an Interval Training workout by starting at 5 mph and increasing 1 mph for every minute until you’re up to 10 mph. Then you could drop back down to 5 and do it again. Training this way is very difficult, and not recommended for beginners. It’s best to ease into it by adding a few high speed intervals into your cardio workouts.