Contrary to what you've been told, you won't truly get into shape unless you do this...
Your muscles have glycogen stores (energy stores) that beg to be expended. If you don’t, your body stores excess energy in the form of fat. When performing cardio like walking, you use minimal glycogen stores, which in turn means that you burn calories only while you are working out.
When you incorporate guided, personalized high intensity training, you are able to fully deplete those glycogen stores when you reach the point of momentary muscular failure (MMF). It sounds bad, but it’s a good thing. You've effectively exhausted the glycogen stores in your muscles, meaning your body will start to dig into your fat stores to replenish. Your body also releases a hormone called epinephrine, which gives your body a rush of energy that makes you feel great.
One key way to to achieve this MMF is having increased time under tension. You will also achieve MMF if you can work in both directions, both in pushing and resisting. Often, our body's are only taught to push, but by working both directions, you can triple the output. The telltale sign you’ve reached MMF is when you perform the exercise until you are unable to lift anymore. It’s important to have your coach by your side to be sure you maintain form throughout the exercise.
In the gym people rarely can get to momentary muscular failure. The muscle does not get enough stimulus to cause a change and get stronger. So what are we really saying: You will see more results if you work harder giving 100% max effort for a shorter amount of time.
Conventional thought about cardio also rarely gets your body to this state of MMF, unless an excessive amount of cardio is performed, in which case, this puts you at risk for over-use injury and premature joint failure.
The additional benefit of getting to MMF with the ideal workout is that you experience what’s called the Epoch effect, otherwise known as the afterburn effect. This is the state that your endorphins kick in giving you an enjoyable sensation. As a bonus, your body continues to burn calories 24-72 hours after the workout, depending on intensity.
When you do this right, you feel absolutely amazing after the workout!
It takes time to learn to get the most out of the workout. Give feedback to your trainer on whether you can handle a little more, and your trainer will also push you beyond what you think you can do to maximize your effort. You’ll love the increased energy, time efficient way to feel your best!
Krista Clinton
Onalaska
Krista Clinton has over 20 years of experience in the Fitness Industry. She has a doctorate in Physical Therapy. Combined with our world class personal training, she helps clients be successful to be the best shape of their life. She's helped countless people recover from injury and finally feel better about themselves. She's part of our team of fitness professionals, ready to help you achieve your best. Want to learn more? Click here to request your complementary session.
