EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption), often referred to as the “afterburn effect,” is the phenomenon where the body continues to consume elevated levels of oxygen after a workout. The duration and intensity of EPOC depend on the workout’s intensity and duration, with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and heavy resistance training typically causing a greater and longer-lasting EPOC effect. By the way, This leads to increased calorie burning even after the exercise session is completed.
EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption) is a physiological phenomenon that refers to the increased rate of oxygen intake following strenuous activity. This increase in oxygen consumption occurs because the body needs to replenish energy stores, repair muscle tissues, and restore physiological functions to their resting state.
The main factors influencing EPOC include the intensity and duration of the exercise, the type of activity performed, and the individual's fitness level. During the EPOC period, the body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate, which can contribute to weight loss and improved body composition.
The processes occurring during EPOC include:
Replenishing oxygen in muscles: After exercise, muscles need to refill their oxygen stores.
Lactic acid removal: The lactic acid accumulated in muscles during intense exercise needs to be converted back into pyruvate or glucose.
Replenishing ATP and phosphocreatine stores: The body needs to restore levels of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and phosphocreatine, which are used as quick energy sources during exercise.
Regulating body temperature: The body dissipates the heat generated during exercise to return to its normal temperature.
Restoring hormonal levels: The body needs to balance the hormones that were altered during exercise, such as adrenaline and cortisol.
EPOC can last from a few hours to up to 48 hours after the exercise session, depending on the intensity and duration of the physical activity performe