18th March 2024
Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC), also known as the afterburn effect, is a fascinating phenomenon in the realm of fitness and exercise science. Simply put, EPOC refers to the increased rate of oxygen intake and calorie expenditure that occurs after a strenuous workout.
When we engage in intense physical activity, our bodies consume more oxygen to meet the increased demand for energy. However, even after the workout is completed, our bodies continue to require more oxygen than usual. This prolonged elevated oxygen consumption is necessary for the body to recover and return to its pre-exercise state. During this post-exercise period, the body works to restore depleted energy stores, repair muscle tissue, and eliminate metabolic byproducts like lactic acid.
This means that long after you’ve left the gym, your body is still burning calories at an elevated rate. Understanding EPOC highlights the importance of both the workout itself and the recovery period, as they both play crucial roles in achieving fitness goals and maximising calorie burn.
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