The Latest on Interval Training

In this month's issue of Prevention Magazine, there is a discussion of another new approach to interval training. I have written several times about the many benefits of interval training on weight loss, reduction of blood pressure and glucose levels.http://notjustforboomers.blogspot.com/2013/04/high-intensity-interval-training.html;http://notjustforboomers.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-many-benefits-of-interval-training.html;http://notjustforboomers.blogspot.com/2013/07/interval-walking-to-lose-weight.html.

In an article entitled, "Turn Up Your Fat Burn," Prevention Magazine, October, 2013, p.106, the author, Michele Stanten, discusses yet another approach to interval training as part of a weight loss program. Basically, the plan she proposes would involve a 30-20-10 Core Set.  This involves a 30 second stretch of a slow interval, followed by 20 seconds of a fast interval and finally, 10 seconds of a max interval.  Doing this routine for five minutes, three times a week is supposed to result in a weight loss of up to 11 pounds and 12 inches during an 8 week period. Pretty impressive results. The program can involve the activity of your choice, walking, running, cycling or swimming.

In another brief article in that same edition of Prevention, it is suggested that if you do follow an interval program, that you keep the intense portion of the program to less than a minute because you are more likely to keep at it if you find it more enjoyable. Anything over a minute at max is probably not going to be enjoyable and cause you to lose interest. Prevention Magazine, p. 38.