Crank it UP!!!

A friendly reminder that the intensity of your workout during an exercise or cardio can be a factor on your weight loss goals.  When you jump on a cardio machine, I would assume you plan to be on it for "X" minutes with a goal to reach that time and going at a PACE YOU CAN SUSTAIN and be done, Right?!  That is a great way to build your endurance if thats what your goal is but there is a more effective way for fat loss and overall calorie burn if that is your goal….which is mine.

CRANK IT UP…… so, say you run on a treadmill at 6.0mph and that to you is a 4 on a difficulty scale of 1 to 10, what would happen if you pushed yourself at a 8 or 9 on the scale for a shorter amount of time?  MORE FAT LOSS!  You can burn 2x as much increasing the intensity.  But it may also leave you with a shorter workout since you tire out faster.  But that's a good thing right?!  Less time in the gym.

Cranking it up for some could mean:

raising the incline

letting go of handrails

picking up the pace for as long as you can stand it

adding more resistance

When we experience stressful/uncomfortable moments, our bodies have to work really hard to restore its energy and calm it down, which means your body is burning more fat during AND after your workout has ended.

I like to keep my body guessing.  I switch up my cardio routines with longer duration days (like my sweaty Saturdays) and short "HIIT" days, 2-3 times a week.  

***My CHALLENGE to you is, find your "4" on the scale and dare yourself to an 8 or 9!!  Even if you can only hold that "8" for 30 seconds.  When you feel recovered, tackle that "8" again.  

CRANK IT UP!