The relationship between HIIT, cortisol, and belly fat is complex.
Cortisol is a hormone that the body produces in response to stress. It plays an important role in many bodily functions including regulating blood sugar and reducing inflammation. When you workout, you put stress on your body, systems and muscles, and therefore increase cortisol. Studies show elevated levels of cortisol over LONG periods of time can contribute to fat accumulation, particularly in the abdominal area.
However, short term spikes in cortisol during HIIT is healthy and normal. Studies show regular exercise, including HIIT, helps regulate cortisol levels over time. HIIT is also effective for fat loss, including belly fat, due to its ability to boost metabolism and increase muscle and calorie burning during and after your workout.
To mitigate the potential negative effects of elevated cortisol over long periods of time, it's essential to balance HIIT with adequate rest, recovery, proper nutrition, and stress management
Want an energizing HIIT workout that will get you results - including decreasing abdominal fat? Check out Surge Fit.
Surge Fit is a fun and effective HIIT workout that can be done multiple times a week with rest periods in between to ensure you reap the benefits of increase muscle, metabolism and fat burning.
Find a class at www.surge-fit.com/find-a-class
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