One of the biggest benefits of interval training is its ability to burn calories even after the workout is over. The reason behind this is what is called EPOC which stands for Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption. The definition is as follows:

Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) is a measurably increased rate of oxygen intake following strenuous activity. The extra oxygen is used in the processes that restore the body to a resting state and adapt it to the exercise just performed. These include: hormone balancing, replenishment of fuel stores, cellular repair, innervation, and anabolism. [Source: Wikipedia]

To put it simply, it means the amount of time your body continues to burn calories long after the workout is over. Studies have shown that the effects of EPOC have lasted up to 38 hours. How incredible is that to know that your metabolism is working overtime! This is what makes interval training so much more effective than traditional cardio.

The calorie burning benefit is one of my favorite reasons I use intervals. You can get a lot done in less time and still burn calories throughout the day.

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