HIIT vs. Steady-State Cardio: Which is Right for Your Goals?
Let's face the facts: if you're trying to lose some pounds, get fit, or just be active in general, you've probably heard of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and/or steady-state cardio. Both do the same thing: they will get you there but in completely different ways. Which one fits you?
The entire truth about it is what suits you best depends entirely on your goal and present state of fitness and then of course personal preference. Let's break it into simpler terms so that you may see what works best for you when you join a one on one personal training in NYC.
What is Steady-State Cardio?
Steady-state cardio refers to exercising at a constant intensity that is easier, in general, to maintain over longer periods (for instance, jogging, cycling, swimming, and walking on a treadmill) at an exercise intensity that allows you to keep exercising up to 30, 60, or even longer.
It's a great one for absolute beginners or for anyone wanting to exercise in an easy, low-impact fashion; it makes it very easy to follow one's life by just putting on some music or a podcast while doing it.
What is HIIT?
HIIT simply stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. Intense denoting that it involves short-burst activities with periods of complete rest. For example, sprinting for 30 seconds and walking for 1 minute, then repeating this cycle for 15-20 minutes.
HIIT is faster, more dynamic, and burns huge amounts of calories in a shorter duration. They are perfect for people short on time, yet who want maximum benefits.
Which One Burns More Fat?
Steady-state cardio and HIIT both make you able to lose weight or shed fat, but they work differently.
Steady-State Cardio: This is because the body uses oxygen and fat to burn energy in low-intensity workouts. But it slows down the caloric burn immediately after exercise.
HIIT: Here is where HIIT really comes into its own. You use them, then continue using them after you've finished going through that magic called afterburn or EPOC: Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption. HIIT revs up your metabolism and keeps burning calories even at rest.
So, in this case, if you are time-limited and you want to achieve complete fat burn, HIIT should be preferred. However, for slow, long workouts, steady-state cardio can actually benefit you in losing weight over the extended period.
Which One is More Suitable for Muscle Gain?
If you are doing body transformation and either want to build or maintain muscle mass, you must be careful about doing too much cardio. Both types can help lose fat, but they will have different effects on your muscles.
HIIT: As a high-intensity exercise, HIIT enables one to burn fat while holding the muscle. It usually pairs with strength training exercises that aim at getting that sculpted lean look.
Steady-State Cardio: Prolonged periods of steady-state cardio often result in muscle loss unless there is enough protein or calorie intake.
If you really want to tone or get in shape, the most suitable method is usually by using strength training along with HIIT. It is also advisable to consult with a one on one personal training NYC for your exclusive needs so that you will not miss balancing between cardio and strength training.
Which One is Better for Busy Schedules?
This one's a no-brainer: HIIT wins.
When you don't have time to go to the gym for even an hour, HIIT can be lifesaving. A person can have a really phenomenal workout in 15-20 minutes. Plus, you can do HIIT anywhere, with no equipment necessary.
Steady-state cardio, however, is slower. It's great for your heart and overall fitness but can be a bit of a squeeze in a busy schedule.
As the saying goes, whatever is best for you is whatever is your favorite. There are people who find jogging for 45 minutes extremely enjoyableand that it is worth more than a 15-minute, high-intensity workout. Others are just so easily bumfuzzled by the fast-paced thrill of HIIT.
Which Is Better In Long-Term Health Other Physique Considerations?
HIIT, as well as steady state cardio, can unquestionably use this body smoothly-the heart, lungs, the entire organism.
Steady-State Cardio: Joint friendly, involves build-up endurance, best for those with low impact exercise alternative.
HIIT: Clearly improves heart health and metabolic rate as well fitness level is attained very quickly as compared with steady-state cardio.
Long-term health combines that you shouldn't choose between the two; a mix of each aptly blends into your routine for your best.
Get The Best Workout Plan With The NGO Effect!
At The NGO Effect, we specialize in creating custom fitness programs for your needs and lifestyle. Whether you need a structured body transformation program or help with balancing HIIT and steady-state cardio, we are here to help.
Our in-person fitness training sessions in New York City offer excellent individualized personal training, accountability, and support to keep you on track. We will design the workouts for your particular goals-whether you are after weight loss, muscle gain, or overall fitness so that you will achieve your desired results without wasting time or energy obtaining them.
Conclusion
There are pros and cons to both HIIT and steady-state cardio, and the greatest choice depends on you.
When time is a precious commodity and you're looking to maximize fat burn, try HIIT.
If you want a more mellow workout that takes longer, steady-state cardio is for you.
Even better, combine the two for the best effect! And if you ever need assistance developing a plan to get you fit, you should consider a personal trainer. That is, of course, what the NGO Effect is all about, paving the way for your success along the way.
Let's find just the right approach for you and your goals and get ready to transform your fitness-one workout at a time!