$Unique_ID{BRK01203}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{What Does "Interval Training" Mean?}
$Subject{exercise training interval}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Does "Interval Training" Mean?


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QUESTION:  I have seen the term "interval training", most recently on a
television commercial, but I can't figure out what it means.  It must have
something to do with aerobic exercise, but I would like more information than
that.  Can you please explain this term for me?

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ANSWER:  While this type of training scheme may be applied to aerobic
exercises, it is also used by many athletes to increase their ability to
achieve greater abilities for competition.  Interval training requires that
you alternate periods of work, or high intensity effort, with periods of
relief, where the pace of activity is reduced.  This pushes your endurance to
higher levels as it increases the amount of energy that can be developed
before your muscles run out of available oxygen.  Since both the pace and
effort is increased for periods during any workout, this method is also called
"speed work" . While interval training has many advantages it can also lead to
overtraining, and may lead to more than the usual number of injuries.
However, when your goals are clear, and you have good counseling available
about your training or exercise program, this method may be of great help in
achieving your objectives.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
