Like a lot of people of a certain age, I grew up believing in certain activities being basic to “working out”. These habits of thinking put me behind the curve of what is continuing to emerge as the best way to exercise along with the most efficient use of your time.
First on that list of deeply ingrained beliefs was running, but more so jogging. It was always about distance, with pace not really being a consideration. Another was weight lifting. This always meant a long list of “sets” focusing on different body parts. Normally you would hunker down for an hour minimum.
The continuing evolution in my thinking was triggered by my first experience with P90X. I believe that I share this in common with a lot of people. P90X was a collective “ah ha” moment about working out. People who did the program started to see the power of structure, time limits, and controlled rapid pace.
You started to see that weightlifting that also includes cardio stress gets you in better shape. The way P90X is laid out you have to keep up. So not only are you working your upper body with the weights and pull-ups, but you are seeing a big calorie burn. The cardio workouts are actually full-body workouts.
These are are types of workouts that get results. My position is that you want something even shorter and even higher intensity than P90X and you want to do it at least one day a week. The reasons are simple. A high intensity workout done at a high pace but with great structure will accelerate change in your body faster. Remember this formula: look to work large muscle groups in your cardio workouts. The work should be full throttle with short breaks. The workout should be short (probably no more than 20 minutes).
When I did Beachbody’s Insanity with Shaun T, I saw the difference it made in my body. Beyond that, I felt great every day when I got done. I was physically calm and mentally alert. You simply don’t get these sorts of benefits if you stick to slow to moderate paced jogging or weight lifting.
These days you see the popularity of workouts like MMA-style training and Cross Fit. This is because people know a good one when they see and feel it. Look to mix in at least one 20 minute or less high intensity cardio workout each week, and watch your short and long-term results really take off.
About the Author–
Cheryl Boswell is a writer and researcher on home fitness and health products. You can save time and money by getting FREE in depth news, features, and reviews on home exercise equipment, workout programs, health, and nutrition, including discounts and best prices at http://bodyslimdown.com