HIIT, LISS, Running — How to Train Your Heart and Burn Fat Most Effectively

HIIT is high-intensity interval training, where short periods of maximum intensity alternate with rest or low-intensity intervals. It is one of the most effective forms of cardio, allowing excellent results in a short time.
| Protocol | Opening Hours | Rest Time | Rounds | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tabata | 20 sec. | 10 sec. | 8 rounds (4 min.) | For Advanced |
| 30/30 | 30 sec. | 30 sec. | 8-12 rounds | Intermediate Level |
| 60/60 | 60 sec. | 60 sec. | 6-8 rounds | For beginners |
| Sprint Intervals | 15-30 sec. | 90-120 sec. | 6-10 sprints | For Runners |
| Pyramid | 15→45→15 sec. | 1:1 with work | 1 pyramid | For Various Levels |
It is not recommended to do HIIT2-3 times per week. Too frequent HIIT can cause overtraining, increase cortisol levels and slow recovery. Combine it with LISS and strength training!
One 20 min. HIIT workout can increase metabolism for 24 hours after the workout — the so-called "afterburn" (EPOC) effect.
The highest percentage of fat is burned in the 60-70% max HR zone (LISS), but HIIT burns more total calories.
L-carnitine + cardio = a powerful combination for fat burning. L-carnitine helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria.
For health maintenance — 150 min. of moderate-intensity or 75 min. of high-intensity cardio per week (WHO recommendation). For weight loss — 200-300 min. per week.
LISS can be done every day. HIIT is recommended no more than 2-3 times per week so the body has time to recover.
Both options work. Morning cardio can help build a healthy routine, evening cardio can reduce stress after the workday. The most important thing is consistency.
Running burns more calories per minute, but cycling is gentler on the joints. Best is to combine both.