I did take a few days off of the 30-day-shred here and there, but I always did some other form of exercise those days, such as hiking or running on the treadmill. Speaking of which- I have avoided using the treadmill for running due to the joint wear-and-tear that it can cause. Well a couple days ago I bought some new cross training shoes and wanted to test them out. I looked at the treadmill and felt frustration at being physically limited. Throwing caution to the wind I decided to go for it. I used to run, and there is nothing like that feeling you get during and after when the endorphins kick in.
I started off slowly at 2.5 miles/hr, with a 5% incline. (Using an incline helps prevent shin splints- it works like a charm and obviously adds resistance at the same time.) Maintaining the same incline throughout, I increased my speed by 1/2 mile each minute until I reached 5.5, then brought it back down to 2.5. I cycled through until I hit the 30 minute mark, drenched in sweat. This is known as High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), and is known to be far more effective for fitness training and fat burning than keeping the same speed throughout. As an added bonus, you get a better workout in a shorter amount of time.
I was very pleased to note that I had no aches and pains the following day. I will be adding this cardio into my routine as often as possible, which means I'll be running in the mornings before work. Did I ever think I'd be saying that? No!! But here we are.
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