HIIT refers to High Intensity Interval Training, a workout routine thats short and straight to the fat burning. Other standard exercise routines generally consists of traditional cardio with strength training, usually lasting between 30-60 min. However, if you are fairly busy like most people 21st century looking to cut that time in half (or less!) HIIT is something you should check out. HIIT is made up of short bursts of intense cardio activity followed by a brief recovery period, repeating this pattern for a total of 8-15 minutes. The intense training program focuses on getting your heart rate up and burning tons of fat in a short amount of time. Sounds too good to be true? Keep reading to find out just why HIIT is such a hit!

Steps for A HIIT workout:

1) Choose a cardio that you enjoy (i.e. Biking, Running, Elliptical, Swimming)

2) Do 30 seconds of the chosen Intense Cardio Activity

3) Stop

4) Take a 60 Second recovery break (less intense activity or paused activity)

5) Repeat steps 2-4 for desired period of time

It is best to start out with short intervals of time like 30 and 60 seconds, as you get better you can increase the interval of max intensity and decrease the resting period.

Example:

1) 30 seconds intense running 2) 60 seconds jogging/walking 3) Repeat

Benefits of HIIT

There are many benefits that this high intensity short interval training technique offers:

After-Burn Effect

HIIT workouts are a very effective method for losing weight. After a high intensity workout studies show that one continues to burn calories up to 24 hours after the workout. Unlike conventional cardio which only spikes your metabolism in the duration of your workout, HIIT continues to burn fat all day long. This is known as the after-burn effect. In fact, in just a 20 minute HIIT workout you can burn as many calories or even more then 60 minutes of cardio!

Easy to fit into your schedule

HIIT training doesnt’t take much time and you don’t need much equipment. You can use a bicycle, pool, treadmill or other similar equipment but, high knees, jumping lunges, or other plyometric exercises are just as effective! This efficient method is ideal to fit into lunch breaks or your morning routine. No more excuses of “I don’t have time!”.

Heart Pounding

The extremely intense cardio intervals constantly bringing your heart rate up. This exercise not only gives your body a work out but your heart as well!

High Intensity Interval Training is a great efficient way to get into shape and lose weight. Burning the most fat in the least amount of time is a life-changing benefit for so many people, making HIIT a great addititon to anyones workout regime.