Today’s post is in the form of a fitness tip rather than an article. There’s a big misconception that there is a fat burning zone that you want to stay within to burn fat. At least that is what is posted on a lot of the cardio machines you will find at a gym.
People then come to the misunderstanding that if a person exceeds that zone (their heart rate climbs higher than the recommended zone) that they aren’t burning fat.
The truth is that your body’s first choice for fuel is always carbohydrates. Once that fuel source is depleted, your body will go on to burn stored body fat. This usually happens after about 30 minutes of exercise. Since most people have a hard time lasting 30 minutes at a high intensity, a lower one is recommended on the machines. But in reality, the more intense you exercise, the more calories you burn. So if you want to lose fat, exercise at the highest intensity you can do for more than 30 minutes. Rather than keep your intensity low, try intervals that switch between low and high. You should see good results using this method after a few weeks.
Melissa Allen, BS, CPT, CES is a certified personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist and Medifast health coach, is the owner of the Optimum Condition Corrective Exercise & Performance Center, located in El Cajon, in the East County of San Diego. We specialize in customized fitness training and corrective exercise for both recreational athletes and post-rehab clients, as well as guaranteed weight loss programs or your money back. You can schedule a free consultation to help you get started. Please visit her website at OptimumCondition.org.
