For Weight Loss, Cardio is Best

Allure Daily Beauty Reporter

Lexi Novak, Allure magazine

We may have missed the zombie apocalypse of 12/21, but in case you want to get in shape for the next one (I hear 2018-2028 is looking pretty good)-or maybe just shed a few of those post-eggnog pounds-better start getting reacquainted with the treadmill. A new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that aerobic exercise is the most effective way to work out if you're trying to lose weight.

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Researches evaluated participants in three different groups: resistance training, aerobic exercise, and a combination of the two. Not only did those in the aerobic group lose the most body fat overall, but they also spent the least amount of time exercising (133 minutes per week versus about 180-260). That's less than 20 minutes a day! Even I can handle that.

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So whether you prefer pounding it out on the treadmill, walking in the park, or doing laps in the pool, it all adds up to a lower body weight. Just keep in mind that if you choose to walk off the pounds, you might have to go a bit longer, since you're not covering distance as quickly. But hey, I'd take a 30-minute walk over free weights and quad presses any day.

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Want more easy tips and tricks for slimming down fast? Check out our list of the 10 Biggest Weight Loss Mistakes and you'll be able to zip up those skinny jeans in no time.


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