2-4 15's vs 1-2 30's--Is common sense enough here? (muscle, treadmill, building)

[Whyte Byrd]

I'm going to try to use common sense here and say, yes, 2 to 4 15 minute sessions on the treadmill (100% max incline all the way) and spread throughout the day, is just as effective as 1 to 2 30 minute sessions, am I correct?

[hooligan]

Just as effective at what?

[Whyte Byrd]

Read it again but slower this time. LOL

I ask because someone told me to get the maximum effect, I have to do 30 to 60 minutes nonstop. Someone else said it's better to break it up because it keeps your metaboism going stronger all day.

[hooligan]

Maximum effect in what respect? Caloric burn? Cardiovascular improvement? What metric are you using to measure your workouts?

That's what I meant by my first post - just as effective at doing *what*?

I don't buy into multiple workouts keeping your metabolism at a higher overall rate, no. Are you doing any resistance training?

[Whyte Byrd]

Originally Posted by hooligan

Maximum effect in what respect? Caloric burn? Cardiovascular improvement? What metric are you using to measure your workouts?

I think you're over-thinking/over complicating this a bit.

[Crustedfilth]

It doesn't matter.

tough to answer when no one knows what you're trying to acheive.

Fitness is goal oriented, not just going through the motions.

[Whyte Byrd]

Originally Posted by Crustedfilth

It doesn't matter.

tough to answer when no one knows what you're trying to acheive.

Fitness is goal oriented, not just going through the motions.

Oh gee I dunno, what do most want from working out--the whole package of deal of benefits maybe?

[NOLA2SGF]

For losing weight, they are equal. My Weight Watchers leader told me so.

For building muscle, I'm not sure but I think they probably aren't.

[hooligan]

Originally Posted by Whyte Byrd

I think you're over-thinking/over complicating this a bit.

No, I'm not. Are you simply looking to burn calories or are you training for a specific event, like a 5K or half-marathon for example.

If you're just looking to lose weight, total calories burned each day is what you're after. Doesn't matter if you do it spread out over 10 workouts or all in one.

If you're looking to improve cardiovascular fitness/performance, the longer workouts will be more beneficial.

If you have other goals, the answers may be different still. You need to clearly define what you're after for us to provide the best advice.

Sorry.

[hooligan]

Originally Posted by Whyte Byrd

Oh gee I dunno, what do most want from working out--the whole package of deal of benefits maybe?

See, I'm not the only one who feels under-informed...