What is the ideal heart rate for burning fat? Does it vary with the individual?
Before you begin your exercise program, consult with a physician. It is true that a low-intensity activity (50-60% of your maximum heart rate) will increase the percentage of fat burned. The reason this occurs is because oxygen must be present for fat to be used as energy and thus burned. When the exercise is not too strenuous, there is usually a great deal of oxygen for the body to work with. Burning a higher percentage of fat should not be confused with the total amount of fat or overall calories expended. That is when exercising at a higher intensity you burn more calories from fat and get more overall benefit as well, including denser muscles and bones and greater cardiorespiratory endurance. However, remember, carbohydrates are the primary nutrient burned in the first 20 minutes, after that the percentage of fat burned increases gradually with time. Regardless, I suggest engaging at a level that can be done without too much discomfort for at least 20 minutes. Over time, you can at
