The method is one that I call "Near Maximal Interval Training."

Here's WHY I think it's better.

At first glance, it LOOKS like Tabata Protocol Training in structure (which, if you're not familiar with it, is 4 minutes of the most intense work you'll ever do...short periods of all-out work interspersed with even shorter periods of rest).

The reason I prefer Near-Maximal Interval Training is that it allows you to do much more overall work during a training session than Tabata Training BECAUSE it's not as intense (you can do it for up to 15-20 minutes vs 4 minutes).

Also, because it's not as challenging to recover from (which is a big consideration when in a caloric deficit), you can do it more frequently. And more frequent training (and burning of tons of calories) means faster results.

Finally, you won't dread it as much as Tabata training...which, to be quite frank, is awesome stuff but hard as hell.

I've got nothing against Tabata Training... I've done it and I really like it. But it's not for everybody.

(Side note, if you ever see a one-hour Tabata "class" being offered, it's NOT Tabata...it's just high-intensity interval training...true Tabata training is a serious challenge to get through just 4 minutes. If you can do more, you didn't go hard enough.)

Near-Maximal Interval Training, however, can be used by just about every level of trainer by adjusting the work-to-rest ratio (increase rest periods, decrease work periods).

I've put together a 16-session progression chart that you can follow to build up your endurance and stamina and get in INCREDIBLE shape.

Check out the full rundown here.

Nick Nilsson
The "Mad Scientist of Muscle"