07 Oct Get in Shape with High Intensity Interval Training

When hitting the treadmill, there are actually several different ways you can approach your workout.  One method would be to walk, jog or run for an extended period of time.  For example, you might run at a moderate pace for 30 or 45 minutes.  Another option is to use interval training, which can actually improve your results while also making running on the treadmill a little more fun and interesting.

Changing Your Workout to High Intensity Interval Training

High Intensity Interval Training, which is referred to as HIIT for short, is a specialized method of working out.  With this method, you still engage in a warm-up before you start the actual workout routine.  You then engage in a short period of maximum-intensity workout and then you perform a low-intensity recovery period before ending your workout with a cool down.

If you are currently running at a moderate speed for 45 minutes, you might change your workout to include 20 to 25 minutes of a maximum intensity workout and then follow it up with 20 to 25 minutes of the low-intensity workout. 

When performing HIIT, you don’t have to run at your maximum intensity for 20 minutes all at one time.  Rather, you might do a 5 minute warm up and then run hard for 1 minute.  Then, follow this up with 3 minutes of walking and then run again for one minute.  You might want to play around with how you divvy up the time, as you want to be sure to stay within you comfort zone while also pushing yourself as much as possible.

The Benefits of High Intensity Interval Training

There are many benefits to engaging in HIIT.  If you are trying to lose weight, this method will actually be more effective than working out at a moderate pace.  This is partially because it helps encourage your body to burn fat throughout the day.  This method also helps to prevent muscle loss, which helps your body stay more toned and also increases its fat-burning efficiency. 

Another benefit is that you generally can get better results in a shorter period of time.  For example, while you can still dedicate 45 minutes to your routine, you could also reduce your workout time to 30 minutes and you will likely get better results than you were seeing before.  Not only does this save you time, it also helps prevent getting bored by your workout routine while also increasing your endurance levels. 

It is important to note that HIIT truly is intense and involves pushing yourself as hard as you can.  Therefore, you are just starting out with an exercise routine, it is a good idea to start off more slowly and to get your body into a reasonable amount of shape before you engage in a high intensity workout program.  In addition, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor in order to make sure it is safe for you to start a HIIT program.