Interval Training Exercise: All of the Benefits, Half the Time

What if you could perform your typical 45-minute workout in as little as 10 minutes and still reap all the health benefits?  If this interests you, consider adding an exercise program that includes interval training to your physical activity.

Interval training is an exercise program that features alternate bursts of higher intensity activity with intervals of lower intensity activity.  To do so, alternate one to two minutes of low intensity activity, such as walking or lightly jogging, with approximately 30 seconds of high intensity activity,  such as running uphill or sprinting.  When you begin, start with three or four intervals and work up to eight intervals per session.  This can also be performed in a swimming pool or on a bicycle.  If you are less fit or have a health condition preventing you from performing high intensity activities, consider alternating walking at a leisurely pace with walking briskly.  

Interval training is easy to do, burns more calories than less vigorous activity and saves you time.  It also causes your body to release human growth hormone (HGH), know as "the fitness hormone."  HGH causes your body to burn fat, increases lean body mass and stimulates bone and muscle growth.  Stimulating the release of HGH is important because after the age of 30, especially in those that live a sedentary lifestyle, levels in the body begin to decrease.

In today's busy world, incorporating interval training into your exercise program is one way to save time without sacrificing your health.