Want to burn more fat and calories when you walk, swim, or run? Then take a break.
The rate at which your body burns fuel may be boosted even higher if you break up a long cardio session into two back-to-back 30-minute sessions with a 20-minute break in between. Breather, anyone?
Start. Stop. Repeat.
How can scientists tell that a 20-minute rest helps rev up your fat burning? Men in a study who did just that (in between 30-minute sessions on a stationary bike) showed elevated blood levels of free fatty acids -- higher blood levels than those produced during a single 60-minute cycling session. And that bump in free fatty acids is a sign of increased fat burning: Circulating blood levels of free fatty acids go up when your body starts to break down fat.
More Ways to Burn Fat
Here are a few more ways to boost the fat- and calorie-burning powers of your power workouts:
RealAge Benefit: A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can make your RealAge as much as 8.1 years younger.
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The rate at which your body burns fuel may be boosted even higher if you break up a long cardio session into two back-to-back 30-minute sessions with a 20-minute break in between. Breather, anyone?
Start. Stop. Repeat.
How can scientists tell that a 20-minute rest helps rev up your fat burning? Men in a study who did just that (in between 30-minute sessions on a stationary bike) showed elevated blood levels of free fatty acids -- higher blood levels than those produced during a single 60-minute cycling session. And that bump in free fatty acids is a sign of increased fat burning: Circulating blood levels of free fatty acids go up when your body starts to break down fat.
More Ways to Burn Fat
Here are a few more ways to boost the fat- and calorie-burning powers of your power workouts:
- Do cardio before strength training. Here's why . . .
- Eat more of this.
- Build some muscle. The more muscle you have, the more readily your body burns calories.
RealAge Benefit: A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can make your RealAge as much as 8.1 years younger.
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Try It: Exercise for 30, rest for 20, exercise for 30 -- SET -- GO! The New Balance VIA Watch and Wrist Pedometer  has alarms to alert you AND keeps track of every step you take toward your fitness goals.
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New Look: Tell Us What You Think!
The RealAge Web site now has a new look and feel. Check out all the changes and then give us your feedback!
Take the RealAge Test