High-Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT Workout, has been a rather popular way to get in shape. It incorporates small bouts of high-intensity exercise with short periods of rest. There are various styles of HIIT workouts, some with running, cycling, and bodyweight exercises. The idea is basically to work really hard for an extremely short period, then rest.
Normally, HIIT workouts are short. These sessions usually run from 20 to 30 minutes in length and, therefore, are more accommodating to most people who have tight schedules, yet they can be very effective.
Why is HIIT so effective?
HIIT works for several reasons. Let’s dissect them.
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Burns More Calories in Less Time
HIIT makes you burn more calories in less time. The intensity of the exercise elevates your heartbeat at an ultra-fast rate. That increases the rate at which your body will burn more calories than when doing regular-state cardio.
Some studies have reported that 30 minutes of HIIT burn more calories than jogging for 60 minutes. This makes it a great avenue for those seeking to drop pounds but have little time on their hands.
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Boosts Metabolism
Your body continues to burn calories after a HIIT session, an effect medically referred to as “afterburn” or EPOC—Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption. Your body will continue to burn more calories than it would have had you done nothing at all.
That is because HIIT puts your body in overdrive. It takes a while to recover, and this recovery burns extra calories.
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Improves heart health
It’s also good for your heart. The high-intensity exercise strains the heart. The net effect of all this is increased cardiovascular fitness in the long term.
Regular sessions of HIIT will keep blood pressure low and reduce the risk of heart disease. This exercise regimen also improves cholesterol levels.
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Builds muscle while burning fat
It is great for building muscles while burning out fat. HIIT combines the power of anaerobic exercise through short bursts, which one can deliver at an incredibly high intensity. Different muscle groups can be targeted, as one does squats or lunges during a HIIT workout to build the leg muscles.
Coupled with this, HIIT burns out the fat. And it is able to bring out a lean and toned look by way of this combined effect.
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Can be done anywhere
One of the best things about high-intensity interval training is that it can be done anywhere. No special equipment is required, and it can be effectively accomplished with bodyweight exercises. Jumping jacks, push-ups, and burpees are all common exercises in HIIT routines.
You can do HIIT at home, in the park, or even in a hotel room when you’re out of town. This makes it really easy to stay consistent with your workouts, wherever you are.
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Levels of Fitness: Suitable for All
HIIT is easily adaptable to any fitness level. A beginner can start by doing low-intensity exercises with longer periods of rest. When you move forward to being fit, you could do it with an increased pace and less resting time.
Through its adaptability to HIIT, it becomes accessible to all people. Whether you are a starter or already fit, you can reap benefits from HIIT.
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Keeps Your Workouts Interesting
One would get bored working out daily with the same exercises. HIIT will help mix it up a little. Each session can be distinct, targeting different muscle groups.
Variety is the spice of life and will always keep you coming back for more; hence, you are highly motivated. You will hardly get bored of missing your workout.
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Improves mental health
Exercise will not only do your body well but also work magic on the mind. High-intensity exercise can have a much more positive effect on mental health through the reduction of stress and anxiety.
The strenuous surges of exercises let loose the endorphins, normally referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which would improve mood and make one feel cheerful.
HIIT can also raise the quality of sleep. Good exercise will help one get to sleep quickly and even sleep quite deeply.
Final Thoughts
Such a HIIT workout session is going to yield a load of benefits. First, it burns more calories in less time and elevates your metabolism, thereby improving the health of your heart. Other than that, it can be done from anywhere and changed to any intensity level.
If you want HIIT exercises and online yoga therapy that suit a busy routine and keep you on your toes, then HIIT might turn out to be the best.
Want more information on powerful fitness routines and holistic well-being? Come check it out at One Wellness. See how you can take your fitness journey to a whole new level.