What is the most effective way to exercise?

I wish there was a definitive answer!!

I was talking to this guy I know. He is a former personal trainer and professional runner. His training philosophy is 20 min of interval cardio, 1-2 min high intensity then 2 min low intensity. He states this is the best way to burn fat.

When I first started working out 10+ yrs ago, I was talking to a different personal trainer. His philosophy was 1hr of mid intensity workout. He said that it isn't until after the first 20 min that your body start burning fat.

These two thoughts are counter intuitive. So now what!!!! And I bet if you have read other trainers and fitness experts you will also find conflicting advice. What to do?!

The same basic principle still holds true. The only way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you consume. How your body stores fat and burns fat is genetics. We are all slightly different. That is why some people can eat a lot and not gain. I personally have to maintain 1200 calorie diet to lose weight.

I try and listen, read and discuss all the different fitness ideas. I try some here and there. It is a good idea to mix up your fitness routine anyway to keep your body guessing and burning. I personally don't believe any one is exactly right. I also think you need to do what you enjoy. If you enjoy pushing yourself very hard for 20 min then being done. Awesome, do it. If you enjoy dancing for an hour, then do it. If you enjoy long walks and hikes, go for it. etc. Etc....

The idea being, MOVE!! Whatever form that takes, move, sweat and make yourself tired out. I also enjoy stretching and some weight training. Both are good to keep the body limber and strong. It also helps with my arthritis. I know there is some crazy idea out there that women shouldn't do weights. NOT TRUE, we won't bulk up unless we incorporate steroids. We don't have the testosterone for that. Weights make your cardio more effective and fight osteoporosis( the brittle bone thing that can happen as we age).

So my point is read, listen and discuss. Then find what moves you and move. Remember being hungry isn't a bad thing when trying to lose weight, as long as you aren't starving yourself. Remember sweat isn't a bad thing either. It is your body cooling itself off.

And finally, I am not a medical professional or personal trainer. Everything I say is from my own personal opinions. Please feel free to speak to professionals for advice, there are lots online and at your doctor's office.

Move2Motivate so you can motivate 2 move.