The most effective type of exercise for fat loss is a combination of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training. HIIT workouts alternate between intense bursts of activity and rest, leading to increased calorie burn during and after exercise due to the afterburn effect. Strength training builds muscle mass, which in turn elevates basal metabolic rate (BMR), allowing for more calories to be burned at rest. Incorporating both types of exercise not only helps in losing fat but also improves overall fitness and body composition.