Unlike regular steady-state running, interval running involves alternating between periods of hard work and a recovery segment. This dynamic approach is a fantastic way to improve your pace and burn calories. It’s a tool that is often misunderstood in training, so let’s look at when and how to use interval workouts effectively.
Interval running is a game-changer for your fitness routine. When you engage in interval running, you alternate between high-intensity sprints and low-intensity recovery periods. This method challenges your cardiovascular system in a way that steady-state running simply can’t match.
By pushing yourself to the limit during the sprints and then allowing a brief recovery, you improve your speed and endurance and boost your energy expenditure, so you’ll burn more calories even after your workout ends.
That doesn’t mean it’s “better” than Zone 2 easy running. But it offers a different set of benefits and thus is a useful part of a well rounded training program.
What is Interval Running?
An interval running workout is where you alternate between periods of hard work (faster running) and recovery periods. This can come together in a wide variety of ways, intensities and duration.
The structure of an interval running session can vary widely…