Slimmers can achieve 'rapid fat loss' with workout that only takes '20 to 30 minutes' - see 'significant results'

Woman's abs / man stretching

Exercise can help with 'rapid weight loss'

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Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 20/10/2024

- 08:00

Exercise can fast-track weight loss results

Those trying to lose weight and burn fat should look at their diets, lifestyles and exercise regimes to see what changes can be made.

Working out is a great way to burn extra calories and an expert told GB News the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT).


These workouts focus on working hard for a short period (often 30 to 45 seconds), followed by small periods of rest (often 15 to 30 seconds), certified personal trainer Jim Richard explained.

He said: "For rapid fat loss, I always recommend HIIT. It’s short, intense bursts of exercise followed by brief recovery periods.

Woman burpeeHIIT workouts burn calories quickly GETTY

"By pushing your body to its limits in short bursts, HIIT forces your system to work harder to return to its resting state. Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption burns fat long after you’ve finished your workout.

"The workouts have been shown to boost metabolism for hours after a workout - something known as the 'afterburn effect' (EPOC effect)."

Increasing the metabolism is great for weight loss as a higher metabolism means the body will burn fat more quickly.

While HIIT is an intense way to exercise and is sure to get the heart rate up, it doesn't last as long as other workouts making it great to squeeze into a busy routine.

Jim continued: "HIIT's perfect if you're short on time. You can get a full-body workout in 20 to 30 minutes and still see significant fat loss results compared to traditional cardio."

So, how often should you do it? Aiming for at least three to four HIIT sessions a week is optimal, according to the expert.

When doing this, he recommended "alternating between exercises like sprinting, burpees and kettlebell swings".

Kettlebell swing

Kettlebell swings can be incorporated into a HIIT workout

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By doing cardio moves and using weights, slimmers will get a full-body workout while also toning their muscles.

Of course, a good workout routine must be combined with healthy eating to get maximum results.

Jim said there are many different plans that could provide good results, including intermittent fasting and the Paleo diet.

The Paleo diet involves eliminating processed foods from your lifestyle and filling up on all things natural instead. Think "eating like our ancestors".

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