In case you missed my latest article, you can find it online at FigureAthlete.com, or simply by clicking HERE. I’m also going to be running a guest blog post by strength coach Michael Boyle later this week on the very same topic.
One of my pet peeves in the fitness industry is the black-or-white, my-way-or-the-highway mentality of trainers and coaches. One camp will tell you HIIT is the best and only way you should perform cardio. Others will tell you that bodybuilders have been getting lean for years using only steady-state work. It’s no wonder the traditional fitness enthusiast gets confused every time they pick up a magazine or book!
Like most training related topics, the question of which type of cardio is superior is quite often, “it depends.” HIIT on a treadmill may be great for someone who’s already in shape, but they’re terrible for a woman who is 100 pounds overweight. Moderate steady state work may be great if you have tons of time to work out, but if you’re a busy mom or business executive you may need to get your workout done in a fraction of the time.
It all comes down to knowing the power of all the tools, then correctly applying them to your trainees/clients given situations and goals. A one-size-fits-all approach is a sure-fire way to getting inadequate results with a large number of clients.
Stay strong
MR
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Who is the model in the photo of this article? She is in excellent shape! Her physique is what I am working toward.
Mike
You’re right on the money. I have found both types of training to work and I think most people should find a way to incorporate both types. Not necessarily simultaneously, but over the long haul. Over time our circumstances change and so should our training to accommodate this reality. Variety is necessary and healthy for our bodies and every new experience teaches us something. I personally believe everyone should do a short triathlon at least once and also a ‘century’ (100 miles) on a bike. We all need to feel a sense of achievement from time to time and a detour now and again can deliver on this.
Regards
Always GREAT info, a pleasure to read all that you have to say! but I do want to know about this gal in the pic, does she look like this all year? ouch