Many people put off working out because the thought of intense heart pumping physical activity for an hour can seem a little daunting. So what if breaking up that workout into two shorter work outs was more beneficial in achieving your weight loss goal? It looks to be possible according to a Japanese study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology.
The study tested seven healthy men with an average age of 25 who were physically active and familiar with exercise and had them perform three separate trials; one single bout of 60-min exercise followed with a 60-min recovery period, two bouts of 30-min exercise with a 20-min rest after the first 30-min bout, along with a 60-min recovery period at the end and one 60-min rest period.
The study found that taking a break in the middle of their workout actually helped metabolize more fat than a 60 minute non-stop workout. To put it simply, more fat was burned in those who rested and completed their fitness routine in two 30 minute segments than in those who took no breaks during their workout.
I don't know about you, but a fitness routine of 30 minute segments that can actually help me lose more weight sounds like a no brainer to me.
* Photo Credit: Reebok
