Who out there absolutely LOVES spending an hour on the treadmill and then following it with the same workout each day? Anyone? No one? That’s what I thought. Oftentimes, when people think of “working out,” they think of treadmills, crunches, and machines at the gym. While all of these can definitely be proponents of a good workout, people often get bored and discouraged with doing the same thing every time they workout. A good solution to this problem? HIIT workouts. If you haven’t heard of HIIT, it stands for “high intensity interval training.” HIIT is just what it sounds like: you workout at a high intensity rate for a short interval, then follow it up with a less intense recovery interval, and then repeat. HIIT workouts should get you sweating and your heart rate up every time. If they don’t, you aren’t training hard enough!
HIIT workouts are PERFECT for those of us who don’t have endless time to spend in the gym everyday (like myself). HIIT workouts should never be longer than 30 minutes, because at that point you begin to risk injury due to the high intensity. If you’re a beginner in the workout world, try incorporating HIIT in 5 minute timeframes: start with 5 minutes per workout the first week, then add 5 minutes each week after that (but not exceeding 30 minutes). HIIT is a great substitute for treadmill training and is typically much shorter than what people will typically spend on a treadmill. HIIT can include all kinds of exercises – form walking and running to burpees and jumping jacks. This is really beneficial because you’re much less likely to quit your workout regimen if you’re constantly trying different workouts.
One great aspect about HIIT is the impact it has on your metabolism and the overall calories you burn during/after a HIIT workout. Your metabolism is boosted for about 2 hours after a HIIT workout, which is much longer than what you would experience after a typical low-intensity training session. And as far as burning calories goes? Consider HIIT your best friend. The body can continue burning calories for up to 24 hours after you finish your workout. So not only are you torching calories while completing the workout, you don’t stop burning them until the next day!
Is cost something that is holding you back from adopting a consistent workout schedule? One of the most common reasons people give for not going to the gym is the required cost that comes with it. Another common reason is that gyms can be intimidating for those who aren’t comfortable with working out yet. HIIT solves both of these problems because it is both cost-effective and can be done at your own home (or anywhere with a bit of open space). HIIT workouts are driven by bodyweight, not added weight. So all you need is yourself and you’re all set for completing some interval burpees and sprints. And, no “gymtimidation” here: complete these workouts in your garage or backyard, where the only person you can focus on is yourself.
Incorporating even just 1-2 HIIT workouts per week can boost your weight loss results, increase your strength, and improve your overall physique. If you are looking to feel better, eat healthier, and lose weight consider one of my online programs! Click the link below for more info! I would love to work with you!
