High intensity interval training (HIIT) is a form of interval
training that involves short periods of time doing intervals at maximum
intensity separated by longer periods of time performing exercise at a low to
moderate level. This type of training can give you maximum fat loss results
because it pushes your body beyond the upper end of aerobic exercise zone. This
article will explain why.
The benefits of HIIT workouts are numerous. HIIT trains and conditions both
your aerobic and anaerobic energy systems, which explains how your body can
experience maximum fat loss benefits. Your body will burn more calories during
HITT, as well as afterwards, because your body takes longer to return back to
its normal state after the extreme activity it’s been put through. HIIT improves
athletic endurance and fat-burning potential as it causes metabolic adaptations
that force your body to use more fat as fuel during the workout. Less muscle is
lost doing HIIT.
What makes HIIT so much different than other interval training
programs is that the high intensity portions of the workout involve pushing the
body to the absolute maximum level. Most interval programs only encourage a
higher heart rate. The way in which you approach HIIT varies depending on your
ultimate training goal. Fat loss is inevitable, regardless of your approach.
HIIT is not meant for the average athlete. Before even beginning
HIIT, you should be able to exercise for 30-minutes at 85% of your maximum heart
rate. This is a very physically demanding program, which means there is danger
in overdoing it. Be sure you begin every session with 5 minutes of warm-up and
cool down. What makes HIIT so effective is that it’s designed for those who want
to maximize fat loss while minimizing muscle loss.
When creating a HIIT program for your own personal needs, be sure
you can do the high intensity level until you feel a burning sensation in your
muscles. You shouldn’t expect to sustain maximum intensity exercise for anywhere
from three to five minutes. Follow this with a lower intensity session of around
four minutes. This low intensity period of time is the same for everyone unless
the levels of high intensity work are shorter.
HIIT is a challenging workout but if you’re ready for a routine
that gives you max loss, it’s definitely the way to go. You won’t be
disappointed with the results.