The Workouts That Burn the Most Calories

Are you maximizing your calorie-burning time when you work out? Make those minutes count with these workouts for weight loss. Read on to learn just why these workouts are great for losing those pounds, as well as routines for each type of workout. popsugar

Add Cardio Intervals

Cardio intervals, or short sprints in between slower recovery periods, are better at helping you lose weight than steady-state cardio because they force your muscles to work harder without adequate oxygen, a process called anaerobic conditioning. This helps your muscles burn more fuel, perform better, and grow in the long run and can even cause certain gene changes in your body that fire up your metabolism. And since bigger muscles equal more fat burn, interval training is a smart strategy to incorporate into a few cardio workouts each week.

Interval Workouts

Try these interval workout ideas the next time it's time for a cardio workout.

A walk/run treadmill workout

A walk, run, and sprint workout

A 30-minute interval exercise bike workout

A 40-minute treadmill interval workout with playlist

An elliptical interval workout

A 25-minute treadmill interval workout

A 45-minute beginner-friendly interval workout

A kick-your-ass 40-minute interval workout

A 25-minute treadmill workout that celebs love

Work Out With Weights

The secret to melting pounds is a strong foundation, and the best way to build muscle is with weights. "When you're doing weight training, it's not so much about burning calories; it's about gaining as much muscle as possible," explains trainer Tia Falcone, who helped 2014 Miss America Nina Davuluri lose over 50 pounds. "All women need to gain as much muscle as humanly possible; that’s what’s going to make you smaller, and it raises your base metabolism permanently." Don't worry about weight training bulking you up — in fact, picking up a pair of hefty weights will actually slim you down faster than forgoing the weight room altogether.

Find a Workout You Love

Consistency is the key to weight loss, so when it comes to what is going to help you lower the number on the scale, the workout that works is the one you keep doing. Find a workout that doesn't feel like one, like a dance class, a weekly hiking date with your best friend, or a brisk walk after dinner, so that you can — and want — to continue to do it.