26 Jan, 2009
Ask the Coach: What is peripheral heart flow
Question
My goal is to reduce my body fat and I have heard that a method called peripheral heart flow can help change my bodyshape. What is peripheral heart flow and how will it benefit me?
Answer
One of the myths in exercise is that weight training does not work the heart and lungs. By manipulating exercise prescription, alternating between upper body exercises and lower body exercises with little or no rest between exercises the blood is constantly flowing from top to bottom, bottom to top. This keeps the blood from getting stuck in the muscles and it gives your heart and your lungs a tremendous workout as your lungs work overtime as well, to keep the oxygen flowing in the blood.
Most people are used to having a “resistance” portion of the workout followed by a “cardio” portion. But with Peripheral Heart flow Training, you’ll do BOTH at the same time! This is a very effective way to use dumbbells, and builds a tremendously fit, strong and conditioned body that look ready for action!
This form of training is generally credited to former Mr. America Bob Gajda, and dates back to the late 1960's, making it a predecessor to modern day circuit training. While this form of training is still considered resistance training, the cardio-respiratory endurance and fat loss benefits are amazing. As a matter of fact, this form of combined resistance and cardio training allows you keep your hard earned muscle while eliminating unwanted fat!