cardio for weight loss

Walk into any gym, and you'll see charts on cardio machines pointing to a "Fat-Burning Zone," typically defined as 60-70% of your maximum heart rate. The theory is seductive: work out at a lower intensity, and your body will burn a higher *percentage* of calories from fat. While this is technically true, it's a misleading and incomplete picture that can actually hinder your long-term fat-loss goals. The Science of Fuel Sources It's true that at lower intensities (like a brisk walk), your body can use oxygen to efficiently break down fat for fuel. At this pace, fat may supply up to 60% of your total calories burned. As you increase the intensity (like during a sprint), your body needs energy faster than the fat-burning process can deliver. It then shifts to burning a higher percentage...

For decades, the steady rhythm of moderate-intensity cardio was the undisputed king of fat loss. But then, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) burst onto the scene, promising superior results in a fraction of the time. So, which method truly reigns supreme for burning fat? The answer isn't as simple as one being "better" than the other; it depends on your physiology, schedule, and goals. Let's break down the science. The Case for Steady-State Cardio (LISS) Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) cardio, like jogging, brisk walking, or cycling at a consistent, manageable pace, is a proven and reliable fat-loss tool. During this type of exercise, your body primarily uses fat as its main fuel source because the intensity is low enough that oxygen is readily available to break down fatty a...

Tag: cardio for weight loss

The Hidden Truth About ‘Fat-Burning Zones’ at the Gym

HIIT vs. Cardio: Which Burns Fat Faster?