What is the "afterburn" effect in the context of fitness training?

The "afterburn" effect, scientifically known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), refers to the phenomenon where the body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate after a workout has concluded. This increase in metabolism occurs as the body works to recover from the exertion and restore itself to a resting state. During this recovery phase, processes such as muscle repair, replenishment of oxygen stores, and energy system recovery consume additional oxygen and energy, leading to continued calorie burning.

This effect is particularly heightened after high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or strenuous workouts, where the body expends a significant amount of energy. Therefore, the primary benefit of the afterburn effect is that it contributes to long-term fat loss and improves overall metabolism, making it an important concept in fitness training focused on weight management and performance enhancement. As a result, individuals looking to maximize their workout's effectiveness often incorporate training that can elicit this afterburn effect.