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Posted by u/crossfit_curious

30 min HIIT vs 60 min LISS: Which really moves the needle?

TL;DR: Trying to decide if 30 min of HIIT or 60 min of LISS is better for progress. What have you all experienced?

So, I've been on this cardio journey for a while now, and I'm really diving deep into the debate of HIIT vs LISS. I've done my fair share of HIIT workouts, and I love the intensity, but lately, I've been experimenting with longer, steady-state sessions. With my CrossFit background, I'm used to pushing hard in short bursts, but I'm curious about the benefits of those longer, low-intensity sessions.

I've read that HIIT can be great for fat loss and improving VO2 max in a shorter timeframe, which is super appealing when you're busy. But then there's LISS, which some argue is better for fat oxidation and overall endurance. I want to know, what's the real scoop? If I do 30 minutes of HIIT vs 60 minutes of LISS, which one is actually better for seeing progress?

I'm looking to make my cardio sessions more effective, but it's tough to sift through all the info. If anyone has personal experiences or insights on what truly moves the needle in terms of performance and body composition, I'd love to hear them! Which one have you found more beneficial in your training? Let's get into it!

17 comments

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u/gymbro_420

bro, if you wanna shred, HIIT is where it's at! 30 mins of that sweaty goodness is way better than an hour of boring LISS. just my stoned opinion.

8
u/cuttingseason2024

LISS is also great for those days when you just don't feel like smashing your body with HIIT. Sometimes, you gotta listen to your body, fam.

5
u/crossfit_curious

Ngl, I used to be a HIIT junkie, but after trying LISS, I actually enjoy it more. The consistency and endurance boost are real. Plus, I can catch up on podcasts!

1

Here's a dad joke for you: Why did the cardio get a promotion? Because it really knows how to run with the pack! 馃槀 But seriously, I find both have their place, just mix it up.

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u/depressedlifter

Some days, I just can't deal with HIIT. I mean, the effort is real, and my mind just isn't in it. LISS feels less like a workout and more like chill cardio.

4
u/fitness_skeptic

Honestly, I've found LISS helps me recover better and keeps my appetite in check. HIIT can leave you starving and overdo it, which can mess with your goals

6
u/keto_kardio_kid

If you're worried about fat loss, HIIT has some solid research backing it up. But LISS might keep your cortisol lower, which is a plus for recovery. I'm all about balance, bro!

22
u/broke_but_fit

Honestly, it's about what fits your schedule! I do LISS when I need to unwind. Plus, I can't always handle the intensity of HIIT after classes.

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u/squat_to_pizza

I mean, if pizza is the goal, then HIIT is your fast track to that slice, haha. But don't underestimate LISS if you wanna be able to eat more pizza later.

85

HIIT is fun, but too much intensity can mess with your recovery. If you're feeling beat up, try LISS for a while. You'll be surprised how much it helps!

78

I appreciate both sides, but don't forget about the benefits of cardiovascular health and heart function with LISS. It's not just about fat loss, but overall wellness.

10

I used to think HIIT was the holy grail, but after incorporating LISS, I've noticed better recovery and stamina during lifts. It just feels right.

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u/cardio_coward

Honestly, I hate cardio. I'd rather lift weights. But if I had to pick, I'd say HIIT is at least over quickly, and I can get back to the fun stuff!

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u/bicepcurl_babe

I agree with the recovery aspect! After my leg days, LISS is like a chill day for my muscles. It helps me feel less sore too.

3
u/macro_master99

When it comes to fat loss, HIIT might give you a bigger calorie burn during the session, but LISS can keep you in a fat-burning zone longer. Look into your MAF heart rate zone for those LISS sessions.

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u/grumpy_gains

This debate is overrated. Do what you can stick to. I tried LISS, but I almost fell asleep! Keep it fun and find what works for you, ya know?

6

If i'm running, it's to avoid cardio, lol. But really, if you wanna get fit, it's not about the time but the effort you put in, right? Mix both, keep it spicy.

3