Friday, November 9, 2012

Metabolic Conditioning will BURN the rest to pieces

  In today's world we strive for max results in the least amount of time possible.  I like to define that as Life Efficiency.  I say "efficiency," yet it still seems most of us are overworked and overbooked.  But, that can be discussed with your life coach, if needed.  I am here to inform you on metabolic conditioning and all that is great about it.

WHAT IS IT???

  Metabolic Conditioning is performing structural, full body exercises to the max exertion (with complete control, of course), with short rest intervals.  Doing so creates an instant increase in your metabolism during your workout and lasts well after you have finished.  This in turn will increase the efficiency of our energy systems.  The BURNING of FAT like nothing you have ever seen!  A way to LOSE fat,  BUILD lean muscle, and INCREASE strength!?!?!?!  How could you not want to give this a GO!?

 Studies have shown the AFTER BURN effect from a good metabolic workout will last anywhere from 16-72 hrs. following intense metabolic conditioning.  A major contributing factor to this elevated state is due to the body's high demand for oxygen after we complete a workout, otherwise known as EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption). After intense activity, there is a significant increase in lactic acid, body temperature, hormone levels, and heart rate (as well as an increase of  awesomeness).  In order to restore balance back within the body, increased amounts of oxygen is required.  In simple terms: not only do you burn a ton of calories during your workout, but the metabolic fire doesn't go out for hours!!!



Pat Flynn demos a great kettlebell metabolic complex below.




=














Your body relies on three main energy systems (Phosphagen, Glycolysis, Oxidative) each of which I will break down as simply as possible for you.  Just keep in mind that all three will produce ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate ) but at varying speeds and times.  NOTE: ATP is your "energy currency" and is present in all three systems.  Whether you are running a marathon or swinging a golf club, the muscles involved are being powered by ATP.







Phosphagen (ATP/PC):  For quick, explosive, high-intensity activities; lasting only seconds. It's ANAEROBIC (meaning no oxygen present).  Your body quickly depletes this energy system due to high demands of energy needed to produce maximal force production.

Glycolysis:  Here comes the backups!!!!  Once that phosphagen tank goes on E, the glycolysis tank becomes your primary source of fuel.  This system runs similar to phosphagen.  Neither requires oxygen, but glycolysis does not produce ATP as quickly.  Lactic Acid is present in this one which is that burning feeling you get after you push it for a few minutes (the BURN that you either love or hate!)

Oxidative:  There is nothing explosive (or as I say, FUN) about this system.  Oxygen is present putting us in the AEROBIC club now.  This is your long and steady race.
P.S.  DON'T ask me to run a marathon with you--no interest!!!!  I love my ankles, knees, and hips too much!


Metabolic Conditioning incorporates all 3 energy systems at all times.  The energy system that dominates will depend on the activity, intensity level, volume, and rest times that you select to work by.  Most of us are straightforward with what we desire from our workouts ( IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER):


#1 LOOK GOOD 


YEAH, in 1992 (age 13) the Bowflex guy was my inspiration to start working out.   Besides watching endless hours of Baywatch and thinking I was the next David Hasselhoff!  










                         #2 FEEL GOOD 
Have you ever been in a health and fitness kick for a few weeks??  When your workouts and nutrition are all at their best? It feels pretty damn good when you do it right doesn't it?  You feel great physically and your mind feels sharp!  Jack Lalanne lived it, no doubt! ( I wanted the juicer but mom wouldn't let me in the kitchen!!!!)

  I am sure there are other more specific reasons to take care of oneself, but I am just listing the 2 obvious reasons.  Who does not want max results in the minimal amount of time?  This is not a fad, or a quick fix.  This is a scientific approach to training that produces optimal results.  Now, let's look at some quick bullet points about why metabolic conditioning is something to consider if you are not already doing it:

SO WHY METABOLIC CONDITIONING?
  • FAT LOSS
  • INCREASE LEAN MUSCLE MASS 
  • INCREASE PHYSICAL (ATHLETIC) PERFORMANCE 
  • INCREASE CARDIAC OUTPUT
  • INCREASE YOUR EVERYDAY ENERGY
  • INCREASE YOUR AEROBIC ABILITY (OXIDATIVE)
  • LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE
  • SAVE HOURS OF YOUR TIME IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN YOUR LIFESTYLE
  • IT CAN BE DONE AT HOME AND SAVE YOU TONS OF $$$ ON GYM FEES
This list can go on, making this blog a book, but I hope you get the point of why metabolic conditioning is the king of all conditioning. THE END.

P.S.--Blog #1 of my career.  Gotta start somewhere.  (Swore I was done writing after "English 2" at WCU-- oh well).  Times are a changin'.