Fitness & Exercise

    The Science Behind HIIT: Why Short Workouts Burn More Fat

    High-intensity interval training continues to outperform steady-state cardio in fat-loss research. Here's what the latest studies reveal about optimal protocols.

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    Dr. Michael Torres

    Sports medicine physician · February 11, 2025

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    The Science Behind HIIT: Why Short Workouts Burn More Fat

    High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has consistently demonstrated superior fat-loss results compared to traditional steady-state cardio in randomized controlled trials.

    The EPOC Effect

    HIIT produces a significant excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) effect, meaning your body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate for hours after your workout ends.

    Optimal Protocols

    Research supports protocols of 20-30 seconds of all-out effort followed by 60-90 seconds of recovery, repeated for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times per week.

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