AboutKen Alan Expertise To build a strong body, build a strong body of knowledge.
Exercise workouts, training programs, classes, program design, workout music, motivation. Cardio, strength, flexibility.
Experience AeroBeat.com, the first fitness music company. Program design/choreography, 7 Richard Simmons videos. Co-star, 4 Time-Life Medical exercise videos. Chapter author: "Physical Activity Instruction of Older Adults" (Human Kinetics), "Fitness Theory and Practice" (AFAA), "Fitness for Travelers" (ACE). Author, "Older Adult Exercise Solutions" (Human Kinetics, 2009). Lecturer, California State University, Fullerton California, Department of Kinesiology. Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA.
Expert: Ken Alan Date: 7/28/2007 Subject: Metabolism
Question Hello, I am 19 yrs old 6' 185 lbs. I'm trying to lose body fat. I was wondering what I can do to increase my metabolism. I know there are specific foods that are better, but does the amount of food I eat at a time affect how long my metabolism goes. Also with exercise, is it better too do a longer slower run, or would sprints increase it better?
Thank you
Answer Metabolism refers to all of the chemical processes that take place in the body, such as the burning of sugars (glucose) for energy and the release of digestive enzymes to break down food. Metabolism results in growth, the elimination of waste products (in urine and stool), healing of wounds, and other necessary activities of the body.
Many factors can affect the rate of metabolism, including exercise, diet, temperature, and hormones. The amount of food you eat at a time doesn't have an appreciable affect on metabolism. The frequency of how often you eat does. Eating food requires energy to digest it. It's generally better to have more frequent smaller meals throughout the day then a few bigger meals.
Both longer and slower runs, and sprints are beneficial for increasing metabolism in the short term. Alternate between both of those types of exercise. Strength training is beneficial for increasing metabolism permanantly as it increases your lean muscle mass, and that consumes calories 24 hours a day.
