HIIT is all the hype lately, standing next to wearable technology on the top fitness trends these past couple of years. Yet many of us aren't aware of HIIT or even know what it is. If you're curious or want to try a new type of training, then keep reading to see what HIIT is all about.
What Are HIIT Workouts?
HIIT workouts, or high-intensity interval training, is a training technique in which you give all you got. You put 100% effort through quick, intense bursts of exercise followed by short, sometimes active, recovery periods. This type of training gets and keeps your heart rate up and burns more fat in less time. This is because a high-intensity workout increases the body’s need for oxygen during the effort and creates an oxygen shortage, causing your body to ask for more oxygen during recovery. The after-burn effect you create is the reason why intense exercise will help burn more fat and calories than regular aerobic and steady workouts.
Benefits Of HIIT
If you aren't convinced to try them with the information above, then we have even more benefits for you. High intensity with interval training increases your metabolism by speeding up your metabolic rate. This means you’ll still be burning fat up to 48 hours after you’ve left the gym. Another benefit is that they're super quick and convenient, so you'll always have time for it no matter where you are. The only equipment you need is your body weight, since the focus is getting your heart rate up and keeping it there. So spare 30 minutes or less of your time at the beach, home, park, wherever. These workouts also result in optimal muscle building and muscle retention on top of fat loss and increased calorie burn. Who wouldn't want that?
Best HIIT Workouts
Now you're probably wondering how you can complete a high-intensity interval training workout yourself. Remember these are meant to be fast to get your heart rate going and to be done anywhere, anytime. You want to perform each exercise at 100% effort, with 30 seconds of rest in between. Then, repeat every other day with the goal of completing it faster each time. Are you up for the challenge? Get started with the below HIIT workouts:
- Sit Ups
- Jump Squats
- Climbing Stairs
- Push Ups
- Split Jumps or Jumping Lunges
- Tricep Dips
What's your take on HIIT workouts? Share your thoughts by tagging us on Instagram @itouchwearables and Facebook @itouchwearables. Also, be sure to check out our new articles published daily!
-Gina
