People on their fitness journeys are often confused about fat-losing techniques and still struggle to ensure that they engage in the right workouts for the same. But fear not. The legendary bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger is here to save the day and share the best cardio workout for fat loss.
Arnie recently shared his take on which type of cardio is best for fat loss in his newsletter, Arnold’s Pump Club. Arnie shared a research-based study on HIIT (high-intensity cardio) and lower-intensity cardio. He talked about the difference between these two and the best method to use for losing fat.
Both the programs are equally beneficial, says Arnie
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The Governator always uses evidence-based research, and this time he highlighted the difference between the two cardio workout methods for fat loss. According to Arnie’s newsletter, research shows surprising results about both high-intensity cardio (HIIT) and lower-intensity cardio being equally effective for helping one attain their weight loss goals. Throughout the research, high-intensity cardio was performed for 27 minutes, three to five times per week. On the other hand, lower-intensity cardio lasted for 45 minutes and was performed for the same number of days.
There was similar fat loss, body weight reduction, BMI changes, and triglycerides in both programs. However, the high-intensity cardio performed better in improving the VO2 max, fasting glucose, and total cholesterol. “Consistency is king. The activities you do repeatedly will deliver results. So you can spend all day optimizing, but what matters is consistent work and effort. That means selecting programs that best match your behaviors, routines, and lifestyle,” Arnie wrote.
As the study suggests, both the workouts have different benefits as well. HIIT workouts require less time but put a high volume of stress on your body, increasing your recovery time. Lower-intensity cardio takes a longer duration of workout but is less tiring, and you can recover much faster. According to the Austrian Oak, at the end of the day, you have to build a plan that suits your body and stick to that plan. Only being patient will help you achieve your goals.
This is not the first time Arnie has emphasized the fact that more than the workout, it is one’s dedication and concentration that matter in their fitness journey. Earlier, while revealing the secrets to his massive 22-inch arms, Arnie had shed light on the muscle-mind connection.
Lack of concentration leads to lesser muscle growth: Schwarzenegger
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In a throwback Instagram reel, the Austrian Oak was seen bashing some fellow gymgoers who used to train with him. They used to train for hours just like Schwarzenegger used to, but they didn’t have any growth as Arnie did. According to the Austrian Oak, there was a specific reason for this.”They look like sh*t. Why did they look like sh*t is because they didn’t concentrate.”
Arnie further highlighted the importance of concentration and muscle-mind connection for building a physique like his. Others failed because they couldn’t maintain a muscle-mind connection as they seemed to be bored while performing exercises. Lastly, he mentioned that if you want to see significant results, “You got to be inside the muscle.”
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No matter what the advice is, the key to success is concentration and patience. Even the legendary bodybuilder believes in this. Success comes with being patient and consistent toward your goal. What are your views on Arnie’s cardio program? Will you consider opting for one or not? Let us know in the comments.