HIIT vs. Steady State Cardio: Which One Is Best for Weight Loss?

When it comes to losing weight, exercising is essential. Cardio is frequently the go-to option for individuals looking to lose weight among the numerous forms of activities. But which form of cardio is better for losing weight? High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and steady-state cardio are the two most common types of cardio. In this post, we'll compare the two to see which one is better for weight reduction.

HIIT vs Steady State Cardio

1. What exactly is HIIT?

HIIT vs Steady State Cardio

HIIT is a kind of cardio that consists of brief bursts of intensive activity followed by intervals of rest or low-intensity exercise. A HIIT exercise may, for example, consist of 30 seconds of all-out sprints on a treadmill or cycle, followed by 30 seconds of rest or gentle cycling. This sequence is performed for a predetermined length of time, generally 20-30 minutes.

2. What exactly is steady-state cardio?

Swimming

Steady-state cardio, on the other hand, is a kind of cardio that entails keeping a consistent pace over an extended length of time. Running, cycling, swimming, or any other exercise that elevates your heart rate and keeps it there for an extended period of time qualifies. Depending on your fitness level, steady-state cardio can last 30 minutes to an hour or more.

3. The Advantages of HIIT

HIIT has grown in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the advantages of doing this form of cardio:

3-1. Consumes More Calories

HIIT workouts are more effective than steady-state cardio in burning calories. Excess Post-activity Oxygen Consumption (EPOC) is an afterburn effect caused by vigorous bursts of activity that leads your body to continue burning calories at a greater rate after the workout has completed.

3-2. Boosts Metabolism

HIIT has been proved to enhance the body's metabolism, which means you'll burn calories even while you're resting. This impact might linger for up to 24 hours following a workout.

3-3. Shorter Workouts

Because HIIT workouts are often shorter than steady-state cardio workouts, they are an excellent choice for people with hectic schedules or limited time.

4. The Advantages of Stable-State Cardio

While HIIT offers several notable effects, steady-state exercise has certain advantages as well:

4-1. Increases Endurance

Steady-state cardio is an excellent approach to improve endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Your body gets more effective at using oxygen to power your muscles when you keep a constant pace for an extended length of time.

4-2. Reduced Intensity

Because steady-state cardio is less severe than HIIT, it is a better alternative for people who are beginning to exercise or have joint discomfort or other physical restrictions.

4-3. Long-term

Steady-state cardio is long-term maintainable, which means it's something you can perform on a regular basis without risking injury or exhaustion.

5. Which is better for losing weight?

Jumping Rope

So, which sort of cardio is better for losing weight? The answer is... it all depends.

Both HIIT and steady-state exercise can help you lose weight, but which one is ideal for you depends depend on your objectives and fitness level. If you want a rapid, intense workout that will burn a lot of calories in a short period of time, HIIT could be your best choice. If you're just getting started or have physical limitations, steady-state cardio may be a better alternative.

Finally, the best exercise regimen for weight reduction is one that you love and can stick to in the long run. Consistency is essential whether you select HIIT, steady-state exercise, or a combination of the two. You'll be well on your way to accomplishing your weight reduction goals if you make exercise a regular part of your routine.