We all know that in a car you need to really step on the gas to experience peak performance. Well, the same is true of your body -- increasing the intensity of your workout is the only way to improve results.
"Everyone reaches a plateau where their weight or level of conditioning doesn't want to budge," explains Michelle Kelsch, co-owner of and director of fitness at Fitness Ridge Resort & Spa in Ivins, Utah. "Our bodies are designed to be as efficient as possible and will not get stronger unless stressed," she adds.
Kelsch recommends doing the following interval-training routine once or twice a week on a treadmill, elliptical, stair-climber, or stationary bike to help shift the body into high gear:
- After a brief warm-up (five to 10 minutes at a moderate pace), exert at maximum effort for five minutes then slow back down for five.
- Repeat the cycle, reducing the duration of exertion and recovery by one minute each time until you get down to one minute.
- Finish with 30-second and 15-second intervals and reap your rewards.




