7x Mr. Olympia Phil Heath Shares HIIT Secret for Ultimate Fat Burn
Former champion reveals his preferred high-intensity interval training method to maintain an ideal physique.

Phil Heath: A Mr. Olympia Legacy
Phil Heath's dominance in bodybuilding is truly remarkable, securing him seven consecutive Mr. Olympia titles from 2011 to 2017. Throughout his illustrious career, Heath consistently outperformed other top competitors, establishing himself as one of the sport's greatest athletes. His unwavering commitment and exceptional performance have made him a household name among fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
Battling the Best in the Business
During his reign, Phil Heath faced off against renowned bodybuilding icons like Jay Cutler and Kai Greene. These intense competitions highlighted Heath's superior physique and mental fortitude. Each victory reinforced his reputation, showing that dedication and hard work can lead to sustained success at the highest levels of the sport.
The Secret Behind the Balanced Physique
Fans have long admired Phil Heath for his perfectly balanced physique and exceptional muscle fullness. Unlike many competitors who may excel in specific areas, Heath maintained symmetry and proportion across his entire body. This balanced approach not only won him titles but also set a standard for aspiring bodybuilders aiming for comprehensive fitness.
Debunking the Cardio Myth
There's a common misconception that bodybuilders dislike cardio, but Phil Heath proves this isn't always true. Contrary to popular belief, Heath incorporated high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into his regimen to maintain his ideal body fat percentage. His approach highlights the importance of cardio in achieving and sustaining a top-tier physique.
Phil Heath's HIIT Training Strategy
Phil Heath favored HIIT for its effectiveness in burning fat and keeping workouts engaging. He often performed his cardio sessions first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, alternating between high and low-intensity intervals. This method not only maximized fat loss but also provided the variety that kept his training both challenging and enjoyable.
The Power of Patience in Bodybuilding
Beyond training techniques, Phil Heath emphasizes the importance of patience in bodybuilding. He believes that achieving significant results can take years, sometimes even over a decade, rather than just months. This patient mindset is crucial for building a stage-worthy physique, as it allows for gradual and sustainable progress.
Conclusion: HIIT vs. Steady-State Cardio
While many bodybuilders opt for steady-state cardio, Phil Heath advocates for the benefits of HIIT. He argues that HIIT is not only more effective for fat burning but also less monotonous, making workouts more enjoyable. This ongoing debate between HIIT and steady-state cardio continues to inspire bodybuilders to choose the method that best suits their goals and preferences.