What is Fat Oxidation?

definition of terms

Definition

Fat oxidation refers to the breakdown of triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol to produce energy. It indicates how much fat your body is burning for fuel.

Explanation

  • Fat provides the largest reserve of potential energy for the body. Oxidizing fat releases this energy for use.
  • High fat oxidation promotes burning stored fat for energy, leading to reductions in body fat.
  • Activities requiring low intensity steady state cardio like walking, running, and cycling maximize fat oxidation.
  • Fasted cardio may further increase fat burning by forcing the body to rely on fat stores for fuel.

Examples

  • Jogging on an empty stomach first thing in the morning to burn fat.
  • Elevated fat oxidation during prolonged low-moderate intensity cycling.

Related Terms

  • Fat burning zone, lipolysis, beta oxidation, caloric deficit, fasted cardio

Common Questions

  • What is the best fat burning heart rate zone? 60-70% of max heart rate, around 120-140bpm for most people.
  • How long does it take to burn fat? Significant fat loss takes weeks of consistent workouts and proper nutrition.

Do Not Confuse With

  • Fat loss – The physical decrease in body fat from prolonged caloric deficit.
  • Keto diet – Very high fat, low carb diet forcing fat oxidation for energy.
66 / 100

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe to our free newsletter

!