High-Intensity Interval Training has found its fame in the world of fitness. It’s effective, very efficient, and can be incorporated into really any routine with success. In this article, we will discuss exactly that and give you some very simple steps to get started. What Is HIIT?
HIIT means High-Intensity Interval Training. It’s short bursts or moments of vigorous exercise followed by small intervals of rest. For instance, one may run all out for 30 seconds and then walk for 60 seconds. You repeat the pattern for a selected length of time, generally for 20–30 minutes.
Benefits of HIIT Workouts
- Burns More Calories in Less Time
Probably the greatest advantage associated with HIIT is that it burns more calories in less time. High-intensity exercise tends to burn more fat than ordinary workout exercises. Even after the workout, your body will go on burning calories because of the afterburn effect.
- Improves Heart Health
High-Intensity Interval Training promotes good heart health. These high-intensity intervals further stress your cardiovascular system to work at higher levels, which in turn strengthens your heart. This will eventually lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease in the future.
- Builds Muscle and Increases Strength
Exercises that are used to conduct HIIT workouts involve squats, press-ups, and burpees, among other exercises. Movements used in this exercise program are bound to build muscle and increase your strength. These varying exercises challenge different muscle groups, making you all-body strong.
- No Equipment Required
You do not need those fancy machines to initiate a HIIT workout. Most exercises within HIIT require your body weight. This makes it an accessible workout for anybody, be it at home or when traveling.
- Metabolism Boost
You can keep your metabolism charged for long hours after working out because high-intensity interval training can supercharge it for several hours after a workout. Over time, this increased metabolism will eventually aid in losing weight and help in healthy weight management.
How to Begin with HIIT Workouts
- Initiate Slowly
If you’re new to HIIT, then it’s pretty important to take things slow. You can start with short intervals, such as 20 seconds of great intensity in the workout, while resting for 40 seconds. You can increase the duration and intensity with your improved fitness.
- Opt for Simple Exercises
Begin with less complex exercises like jumping jacks, squats, and high knees. These are simple to execute and very effective in building strength and endurance. As you progress, you may add more challenging exercises.
- Warm Up and Cool Down
Always kick off with a warm-up that can prepare your body for a heavy workout. You can do this in the form of light jogging or stretching for 5 to 10 minutes. Allow the muscles enough space and time to recover and breathe by doing a warm-down after the workout with light stretches.
- Listen to Your Body
HIIT can get really intense, so make sure you are always listening to your body. If there is pain or extreme discomfort, then definitely stop and rest immediately. It is okay to take longer off, a lot more in fact, especially when in the starting phase.
- Be Consistent
The key component for effectiveness with HIIT is consistency. Ideally, try to complete 2-3 HIIT sessions each week. Of course, you could potentially do more as you allow yourself days to recover. After all, even a 15-minute workout can still be effective in HIIT.
Final Thoughts
High-Intensity Interval Training is a strong means to bring overall fitness to the next level within the shortest possible time. It’s no secret that HIIT went viral; the rationale behind it was the benefits of burning lots of calories, improving heart health, and building strength. Start off slowly, pick simple exercises, be consistent, and you shall enjoy many other advantages of HIIT workouts. This type of workout is very flexible—from the novice up to the professional level of any athletic game.
