When trying to burn calories and shed bodyfat, cardiovascular type exercises are
the "go to" method. However, not all activities are created equal. To maximize
the calorie burning effect, it is best to chose an activity that requires more
limbs moving. The more body parts moving, the more energy is required. Use
more energy, burn more calories... it's just that simple. When you use larger
muscles such as the quadriceps and gluteal muscles, you also create more of a
demand on the cardiovascular system. To get a greater return on your workout,
activities such as the elliptical trainer, walking on the treadmill, stepmill
trainer, or running, in that order, are great ways to burn a ton of calories.
The recumbent bike and stationary bike are good forms of cardio, especially if
you are unconditioned or have knee or back issues but won't burn as many
calories as the rowing machine and other machines using both upper and lower
body muscles simultaneously.
Enter the hybrid cardio workout... For an even higher calorie burning workout
try classes that incorporate both fast pace activities with strength training!
Workouts such as bootcamp, crossfit, cough... KICKFIT,,,cough (shameless
promo!), Zumba or spin will not only burn calories and shed bodyfat but will
also build and tone muscle which will raise your resting metabolism as well!
People tend to also push themselves more in a class environment because they
feed off the natural energy levels in the class and have an instructor push them
as well.
Of course, always work at your own pace and current fitness level. Anything is
better than nothing when it comes to fitness. Try upping your workout intensity
and switch up your workout next time you're in the gym and see if you notice
your heart rate being elevated and more calories burned.