golds gym willow lawn

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2,200 people die every day due to cardiovascular diseases—that’s 91 people per hour, more than one person per minute. And while it’s common knowledge that moderate exercise helps prevent heart disease, many researchers now believe that high-intensity training is even better. Studies show that this type of training helps the body transport and use oxygen in a more efficient way than traditional exercise does. The evidence is so strong that many doctors and researchers are introducing interval training into the rehabilitation routines of patients recovering from heart failure and bypass surgery.
So this month, we challenge you to take your cardio routine up a notch with some high-intensity interval training. Robert Reames, a Gold’s Gym Fitness Institute Member and head trainer on the Dr. Phil TV show, is a longtime proponent and gave us three routines that take varying lengths of time.
“These are great for your heart, but also great for building muscle,” explains Reames. “They add intensity to any workout and guarantee a healthy calorie afterburn when you’re finished.”

Tools for the Heart

To really nail down your heart rate and track your progress, think about investing in these fitness gadgets.

» read more

Below you’ll find three speed interval workouts. The level of intensity varies between 1 (lowest) and 10 (highest). “Remember that everyone has their own pace. Your Level 5 might be someone else’s Level 7,” says Reames. “This is also a great time to get a checkup with your doctor and discuss your heart rate zone.”

Where can you do these workouts? These workouts can be done on a track, a treadmill, an elliptical or a stationary bike—or even outside your office building.