Which Exercise Is Better – High Intensity or Long Duration?
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Exercise is one of the most important aspects of health. People are always wondering which type of exercise is the best option. There are two main types of exercise, high intensity and long duration, and this article will discuss which type is better for people’s health.
Benefits of High Intensity Exercise
High intensity exercise is an excellent choice for people who are looking for quick results. It is intense and often short-lived, lasting no more than 30 minutes at a time. This type of exercise is effective for making significant changes to the body’s fitness levels in a short period of time. It is also beneficial for burning calories and increasing the metabolism. The intensity of the work out increases the heart rate and encourages the body to use more energy than it would with long-duration activities.
High intensity exercise also benefits the muscles. It increases the muscle mass and strength of the body better than long-duration exercise. It also reduces the risk of injury, as there is less wear and tear on the body when less time is dedicated to exercising.
Benefits of Long Duration Exercise
Long duration exercise, on the other hand, is usually more relaxed and often lasts for an hour or more. It also encourages the body’s ability to function correctly. The slow and steady work out helps the muscles to adapt and endure for longer periods of time. This type of exercise is the best option for those looking to improve their overall health.
The cardiovascular system also benefits from a steady-state exercise. It helps to lower stress and improve the body’s circulation. It also allows people to get out and explore the natural environment which can boost mental health and reduce the risk of some diseases.
Disadvantages of High Intensity Exercise
The intensity of high intensity exercise can be a disadvantage, as it can put a lot of strain on the body. The long duration of high intensity activity can also be a hindrance. It can be hard for some people to maintain an intense work out 8 times a week. It can also lead to injuries if it’s not done correctly and without proper care for the body.
Disadvantages of Long Duration Exercise
The primary disadvantage of long duration exercise is that it can become tedious and boring. It can take a long time for the body to adjust to the activity. The benefits of long duration exercise are slow to appear, meaning that it isn’t an effective option for those who want quick results.
Overall, which exercise is better: high intensity or long duration? It really depends on the individual’s goals and level of fitness. Some people might benefit more from high intensity workouts, while others may prefer the steady-state gym routine.
Role of Adaptation
One of the most important components when it comes to understanding which exercise is better is the role of adaptation. Every individual responds differently to exercise, and the results are dependent upon their level of fitness and their body type. High intensity exercise is more beneficial to those with a fitness background as their body is more accustomed to such intense activity.
Conversely, long duration exercises are often more appropriate for those with limited physical experience. People who have just started to exercise should take it slow and focus on increasing their stamina and endurance before attempting high intensity routines.
Balancing Exercise
Experts suggest that the proper way to exercise is to balance both high intensity and long duration exercises in one’s routine. Doing some short burst exercises can help to burn more calories and increase the heart rate while also performing long duration exercises to strengthen muscles which can be beneficial for long-term results.
In conclusion, the best exercise for any individual depends on their goals and fitness experience. High intensity exercise focuses on weight loss and muscle building, while long duration exercise focuses on endurance and overall health. A combination of both types is the best way to ensure the desired results.
