There was an interesting item on the local news (Australia) last night. A research project indicated that training for a total of 30 minutes, broken down into hard/sprint for 8seconds followed by a 12 second rest, was the best way to exercise to lose weight.
(I could have those times back to front )

Anyway, one of the participants was on a bike, with a man standing beside saying when to fast etc.. I thought it was interesting, but for me, watching all those seconds would drive me bananas

Hi Fi,

I’m with you—I just want to let my mind be somewhere else when I’m exercising. *grin*

On the other hand, there are some podcasts and mixes out there that count time for you and tell you when to switch gears: no need to look at the clock!  I don’t know any offhand, but if someone wants to do a search and check it out, I’d be most appreciative.

Cheers,
Julie

There are 2 short interval workout’s on Prevention.com’s page that you can subscribe to through Itunes:

http://www.prevention.com/center/0,,s1-2-171-0-0-0,00.html

I actually gave the 12/8 method a go today and found it kept my heart rate up for longer and I burned more calories quicker. While I was working away, I wondered if it was successful ( in the research) because if you knew you were only going hard for 12 sec, you would really keep at it. Then, LOVE that 8sec break.

Interesting theories but it still gets back to moving!

I’ve never tried this method, but will keep it in mind. I really like the HIIT training on the Body for Life and Max-OT websites. 15-20 minutes is just fine by me.