Basic Pursuits

Danish researchers found that soccer players burned more fat and grew more muscle mass than joggers.

The articles that I have read all point out that the soccer players, though they seemed to have achieved more with respect to fat burning and muscle building, also enjoyed it more. They had the impression that it wasn't so hard. The joggers on the other hand felt like they had worked their tails off even though their calorie expenditure was relatively the same as the soccer players.

Not surprising. People enjoying themselves have a better attitude than those who aren't. If you think that because you enjoy your exercise you're not doing enough, forget about it. This study seems to be saying, "Do what you love and the muscle will come. (and the fat will go.)"

Soccer with its periods of rest punctuated by bursts of high intensity effort, remind us of interval training. Much research has shown that interval training is also more effective at building muscle and burning fat than steady aerobic activity.

I love my intervals, especially since I can get so much done in a short amount of time.

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