Metabolic Conditioning

Metabolic conditioning is a type of training that targets the body’s two main energy systems associated with exercise at once: ATPPC system and the aerobic glycolysis system. Personally, this is my favourite kind of cardiovascular training, I find that it hits two birds with one stone; allowing me to keep a good level of strength and lean muscle whilst providing a great fat burn.

As mentioned before, metabolic training helps maintain lean muscle mass and reduce body fat. For those looking to keep that well rounded athletic physique with lower body fat levels and strong, toned muscle then this is perfect for those goals. It also increases muscle strength and endurance, which is huge for fitness development. These aspects of your fitness will ensure that workout intensity can stay at a relative level to your stages of progress along the journey. It also is a massive motivator to see yourself grow stronger and fitter, helping keep you consistent and in a positive state of mind. Another key aspect of metabolic conditioning is that it increases metabolic thresholds: can metabolise Creatine and resynthesis ATP quickly and much more efficiently in the lactate threshold – most beneficial for high demanding and high intensity levels of exercise.

Metabolic conditioning also has a hormonal benefit: increasing thyroxine production which is key in metabolising fat. Increases testosterone production and balances levels of oestrogen and progesterone in females, helping to prolong fertility and regulate menstrual cycles. Blood sugar levels are better regulated due to the increase in insulin production from the pancreas.

I use metabolic conditioning in my programming mainly as a method for fat burn and body composition change. Transforming your body is very difficult but interesting MetCons can go a long way to making it more fun and engaging. There is a lot of variation to how I structure these workouts, it helps to keep clients motivated.  A typical Metcon will not last longer than 45 minutes and usually is around 25-30 minutes long.