HIIT vs. Steady State Cardio

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): A cardio exercise strategy involving short very high intensity bursts, usually performed in a 2:1 ratio with a rest or another medium intensity exercise.  This strategy is very effective for fat loss and general cardiovascular performance. (

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-intensity_interval_training)

Steady State Cardio: A generally accepted cardio strategy also known as Long Slow Distance (LSD) strategy designed for improved cardiovascular performance as well as increased skeletal muscle development.

 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Long_slow_distance)

Now that we are clear on the definition, I have a question for you, which do you choose? 

Think about it for a bit before you make your decision.  If you could only do one type of cardio for the rest of your life would it be riddled with short fat incinerating bursts or excess melting long steady sessions?

What does it matter you ask???

Nothing…EVERYTHING

Let me re-phrase the question.

How do you approach life in general?  Too vague, ok.

How do you approach all of your goals, business, personal or fitness?  Still too vague?

This is my take.  You can learn quite a bit about people by the way they state, work and commit to their goals, in any aspect of life.  Lately I have been pondering the difference between certain attitudes.  There, of course are a thousand different types of attitudes, grey areas if you will, that muddy the waters when categorizing anything, especially people.  However, when really thinking about a persons’ general attitude (yes, I have roughly 4 hours of daily commuting, time to think) I always drift toward their overall drive and how they handle personal goals and obstacles.  Ignore it if you will, but this is my long winded take on how we live our lives per our choices in cardio…

HIIT Trainer:

Push harder, faster longer as long as the intensity is there!  Sweat, blood and most likely some excrement are sure signs this true believer was here.  You got a challenge, we’ve got the answer!  Go big or go home! Do it ‘till it doesn’t suck! I love this attitude!  Whether this is about a physical challenge, or testing the limits of your brain, there is little middle ground for this group.

Steady-State Trainer:

Do it right the first time.  Measure twice, cut once.  The goal is in sight, but the road to get there is much longer and riddled with pitfalls, so, of course the best way is a very distinct plan that takes all aspects into account.  Would rather take my time than go nuts like our HIIT cousins, we will get there, may take a bit longer but we will be there regardless.  These tortoises are good friends to have, always driven, maybe not as furiously as the afore mentioned, but they will get there. 

Now I am sure no one fits exactly into either of these categories…  Me?

I am dominant HIIT with a bit of Steady pulling up.  I actually do HIIT cardio 90% of the time and love that I can destroy any fiber holding my lungs / heart / lower intestine together in almost no time.

Just some thoughts…