HIIT which is short for High Intensity Interval Training is a training technique where you train at your optimum level and give it hundred percent of your effort. This is carried out through quick, intense bursts of exercise. The quick intense bursts of exercise are then followed by short, active or recovery periods. This is then repeated at a set duration.
So what are the benefits of HIIT Training?
HIIT Increases Your Metabolism: This style of training keeps the heart rate up and burns more fat in less time. The combination of high intensity with interval training leads to EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption) this speeds up your metabolic rate. Therefore, the good news is that after you complete a HIIT training session you will still be burning fat even after you have left the gym. You will burn more fat and calories in the 24 hours after this type of workout than you do after a steady-pace run or workout.
Say goodbye to those long boring sessions on the treadmill!
Time Efficient and Convenient: HIIT Training is super-efficient and is ideal if you have a busy schedule. The workouts can be done anywhere; gym, home, park and even in a hotel room – which makes it an ideal way to train if you are travelling or away on holiday. HIIT workouts are quick 30 - 20 minutes or less – resulting in a short workout time, nearly anyone can integrate this into their lifestyle. You can squeeze in a workout during your lunch break or to get in shape for a fast approaching event.
No Gym or Equipment Necessary: HIIT workouts generally use only your body weight, so it’s not a problem if you have no dumbbells or access to a gym. The focus of HIIT training is to get your heart rate up and then keeping it there, working at your maximum heart rate. These types of workouts help in muscle building and are excellent for fat loss and to increase calorie burning. I recommend selecting exercises that utilise and work the majority of muscle groups. Incorporate full body exercises such as; burpees, sprinting, squats, deadlifts, and plyometrics – these will really kick your fat loss into high gear!
HIIT workouts need full focus and concentration, so if you like to workout reading a magazine or chatting to friends then this is probably not for you. The workouts require you to work hard the whole time, something you will not get from lower intensity exercise. The workouts can be varied, challenging and for new exercisers a quick way to see results. The workouts are shorter and therefore you are less likely to get bored. Your body will be a fat-burning furnace long after you have finished your workout. I highly recommend incorporating HIIT into your workout schedule.
Author: Dal Dhaliwal – www.daldhaliwal.com
Photos: DepositPhotos
