This study compared the fat metabolism between "a single bout of prolonged exercise" and "repeated bouts of exercise" of equivalent exercise intensity and total exercise duration.
Seven men performed three trials: 1) a single bout of 60-min exercise (Single); 2) two bouts of 30-min exercise, separated by a 20-min rest between exercise bouts (Repeated); and 3) rest. Each exercise was performed with a cycle ergometer at 60% of maximal oxygen uptake.
In the Single and Repeated trials, serum glycerol, growth hormone, plasma epinephrine, and norepinephrine concentrations increased significantly (P <>
Moreover, the Repeated trial showed significantly lower values of insulin and glucose than the Single trial. The relative contribution of fat oxidation to the energy expenditure showed significantly higher values (P <>
These results indicate that repeated bouts of exercise cause enhanced fat metabolism compared with a single bout of prolonged exercise of equivalent total exercise duration.
Dr. Zach's Comments:
- Many studies in the past few years have shown the benefit to interval training (increased metabolism, fat burning, energy expenditure, and endurance).
- The idea certainly makes sense if you view our ancestors as predators or warriors who would need to excel at quick and intense bursts of energy, speed, and power to kill their next meal, a threatening predator, or an enemy.
- If you're looking for a workout program that emphasizes interval training, I would suggest the Body for Life program.
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