Interval Training Benefits

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What are the benefits of interval training? Why would I switch from doing my traditional cardio routine? Does it really work if I am not working hard for at least an hour? These are a couple of questions that I hear all the time with clients and injured athletes that I work with. Here are the top 8 benefits of an interval training workout routine.

1. Interval training is similar to everyday activities. Most of us are not trying to work at a moderate to high intensity for a long period of time throughout the day. We naturally take breaks and actively rest in between intense activities. Interval training prepares us for the sudden bursts of intense activity or stress that we experience.

2. Interval training improves the body's ability to utilize
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Interval training improves the efficiency of the heart. There are two ways to improve how much blood is pumped through your body. First is the volume of blood that the heart expels. Second is the rate at which the heart pumps the blood (heart rate). Have you ever wondered why a fit person has a lower heart rate than average Joe? Interval training strengthens the heart. In doing so the heart is able to pump more volume and therefore won't have to pump as many times. Imagine how much blood can be circulated when your heart rate increases and the volume that the blood pumps increase together. Some studies suggest that interval training type workouts are beneficial for those with heart disease.

8. Interval training reduces the body's dependence on insulin. Insulin is essential for transporting sugar, in the form of glucose, into a cell for energy. Just ask any one who is diabetic. During high intensity exercise your body produces lactate. The truth is that lactate production is a good thing. Lactate can be transported into a cell much more easily than glucose and without the need of insulin. Lactate can then be converted easily into pyruvate which is a major chemical used to produce fast energy. This is good news for diabetics and