STRONG CAMP: CARDI-O or CARDI-NO?

RAWDAH

What role does cardio play in fat loss? And what else is it good for?

Fat loss can be achieved in many ways, but it will only be successful if you have created an ‘energy deficit’ – you consume less energy than your body burns.

You burn energy in four  ways

Basal Metabolic Rate/Resting Metabolic Rate (BMR/RMR): this refers to the calories that you burn at rest and encompasses everything from organ function to cell communication. You have very little control over your BMR/RMR.

Thermic effect of food (TEF): this refers to the energy you burn when you consume food through the digestive process. You have some control over your TEF by adjusting what ratio of macronutrients (protein, carbs and fats) you choose to eat.

Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT): this refers to the energy you burn when you aren’t formally exercising, such as the energy used to vacuum the house or raise your arm to scratch your head. You have a fair amount of control over your NEAT levels, but these are highly influenced by variables such as mood, energy levels and how active your job is.

Physical activity level or exercise activity thermogenesis (PAL/EAT): this refers to the energy you burn through formal activity such as going to the gym. You have almost full control over your formal activity level, including the frequency and intensity of your workouts.

Including more cardio in your workout program will increase how