Short on time but still looking to get a solid workout in? Then it’s time to turn to HIIT. HIIT stands for high intensity interval training, which involves short bursts of high-intensity aerobic movements that get the heart pumping and the body pushing itself close to the max.
Intense? Yes, but don’t let that word scare you away.
HIIT helps burn more calories in a shorter amount of time and if you manage to stay within the “fat-burning” zone during your workout, it can leave the body burning more calories even after the workout is over. This special “fat-burning” zone varies from individual to individual, so it’s important to know your resting heartrate and your max heartrate in order to gage your different zones.
Different Zones?
Heartrate monitors are typically used to track the level of intensity you’re exerting throughout the workout. This equates to the amount of stress that your placing on your heart during your workout routine. A heart rate monitor allows you to view a breakdown of your different energy-expenditure percentiles (for example, are you working at 90% max? 50% max? etc.)
While heart rate monitors are not absolutely necessary to perform a HIIT workout, some specialty HIIT classes may require them. They are not, however, a requirement for a solo HIIT workout. If you’re working out on your own, it may be in your best interest to purchase one if you’re looking to take your HIIT routine to the next level. It also gives you a better understanding of how hard you’re working your heart.
Who is HIIT for?
HIIT is for anyone and everyone looking to take their fitness to the next level. HIIT is for moms, runners, professionals, athletes, and beginners. For moms, it’s a great escape. For runners, it’s the motivation and methodology necessary to prepare for the next run or race. For professionals, it’s the time-efficient workout when health and well-being are important, but time is tight. For athletes, it is the real-time feedback and the ability to track progress and interval training necessary to improve performance. For beginners, it’s the push—the education and encouragement—necessary to reach an entirely new level of fitness.
