High-intensity interval training
The popularity of high-intensity interval training is on the rise. High intensity interval training sessions are commonly called HIIT workouts. This type of training involves repeated bouts of high intensity effort followed by varied recovery times.
What are the benefits of HIIT?
HIIT training has been shown to improve aerobic and anaerobic fitness, blood pressure, cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity (which helps the exercising muscles more readily use glucose for fuel to make energy), cholesterol profiles, abdominal fat and body weight while maintaining muscle mass.
Read more about the physiological reasons of why HIIT is so effective
Is HIIT safe?
To reduce your risk of injury, it’s important to establish exercise form, muscle strength, and range of motion before starting an HIIT program. Also, the intensity of the workout should be modified to your own preferred challenging level (ideally between 85-95% heart rate max). It is important to include a warm-up and cool down at a light-to-moderate intensity to prepare your muscles and cardiovascular system for high intensity activity. Because of the increased stress on your muscles and cardiovascular system a longer recovery period is recommended, start with one HIIT workout per week.
HIIT is just part of the picture
A well-rounded physical activity program includes aerobic exercise, strength training, core work, and stretching. This blend helps maintain or improve cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness and overall health and function. Regular physical activity will provide more health benefits than sporadic, high intensity workouts, so choose exercises you are likely to enjoy and that you can incorporate into your schedule.
Read the full article here https://www.acsm.org/docs/brochures/high-intensity-interval-training.pdf
