Which Is Better: Interval Training or Continuous Exercise: Tennessee Men’s Clinic Offers a Solution

In the realm of fitness, the controversy amidst interval training and continuous exercise is fairly common. Both methodologies have their proponents, who highlight different benefits that align with their specific goals in fitness. As per Tennessee Men’s Clinic, knowing how these two approaches differ is an ideal way for people to make the right choices for their workout plans.

What is Interval Training?

Interval training basically involves alternating short durations of intense physical activities with rest or lower-intensity activities. For instance, a typical interval training session may consist of active sprinting for 30 seconds, then one minute of either walking or slow jogging, and this cycle is repeated several times. Such training can be done in diverse kinds of activities such as running, cycling, or some strength training.

Benefits of Interval Training:

Time Efficiency: Being high-intensity nature, the activity has the potential to offer noteworthy benefits in a relatively short period. Many workouts can be completed in 20-30 minutes, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.

Increased Caloric Burn: Interval training is so intense that it causes a phenomenon known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), where the body will continue to burn calories at a heightened rate even after the workout is over.

Improved Cardiovascular Fitness: Researchers have demonstrated that interval training may improve cardiovascular endurance more than continuous exercise. This type of exercise enhances both aerobic and anaerobic fitness levels.

Variety and Engagement: This might make it hard to get bored by routine exercises, thereby leading to a good chance of staying on track with a high motivation level in fitness activities.

What is Continuous Exercise?

In contrast, continuous exercise is performed at a particular intensity over a long duration which is termed steady state. According to the Tennessee Men’s Clinic, this may be running, cycling, swimming, or walking without variation in speed. Usually, the duration of these sessions ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the individual’s endurance and objectives.

Benefits of Continuous Exercise:

Simplicity and Accessibility: Continuous workouts are considerably simple and necessitate minimal planning. They can be carried out almost anywhere and are accessible to individuals of all age groups and their fitness levels.

Lower Risk of Injury: Because it requires a steady pace, and no intensity is involved, it carries a much lower risk of injury, especially compared to high-intensity exercise that may not be so great for beginners, a person with an injury, or elderly individuals.

Better Mental Health: Long steady workout sessions create a meditative effect to reduce stress and enhance moods. The rhythmic form of continuous exercise can be calming and is often referred to as a “runner’s high.”

Higher Endurance:  Continuous exercise works well for endurance, thus making it suitable for athletes involved in long-distance events. It teaches the body to maintain energy output for a long time.

Which Is Better?

The choice between interval training and continuous exercise primarily depends on individual fitness goals, preferences, and lifestyle. For those who are aiming to burn the maximum amount of calories in a minimal time and seek improved cardiovascular fitness, interval training could be the best way for them to reach their goals. It can also be more appealing to people who thrive on intensity and variety.

Continuous exercise, however, appears to be most appropriate for a bodybuilder who is focused on putting effort into building endurance, enjoying longer workouts, or also prefers a more relaxed pace. It is also ideal for beginners or those with certain health concerns.

Ideally, a combination of both styles in a workout routine would yield the best outcome. High-intensity intervals can be alternated with longer steady-state exercise sessions to provide better overall fitness, prevent boredom, and create a more balanced approach to health and exercise. Whether an individual is interested in the thrill of intervals or the steadiness of continuous exercise, it’s essential to determine which works ideal for them and accordingly adhere to the routine.