High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of the most effective regimens to improve fitness. This form of exercise works out the entire body, improves health, and increases endurance. Moreover, HIIT training burns calories and reduces the risk of some diseases.
Nonetheless, HIIT, like most forms of exercise, may not be for all fitness levels. For this reason, the YMCA of Central Kentucky explains what HIIT training is and its benefits. Discover if the workout is proper for you.
What is High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT)?
HIIT is an exercise program characterized by intense workouts for short periods. A complete HIIT workout usually lasts 10 to 30 minutes. The short sessions make the regimen suitable for people with busy schedules.
Since the workouts are high-intensity, they challenge your body to perform at its best. As a result, the workout program produces results within a short period.
7 Awesome Benefits of HIIT
A single HIIT workout session trains your upper, core, and lower body. Thus, it improves your well-being without engaging in lengthy workouts. No wonder HIIT is one of the most popular workouts for fitness enthusiasts with a tight schedule.
Other great benefits of HIIT training include the following:
Stamina Improvement
HIIT training aims to push your body to its limits. With repeated workouts, your body gets used to the intense exercises. As a result, you can sustain strenuous physical activities for a more extended period. This improved endurance is ideal for people who have demanding jobs.
Can Train & Build Various Muscle Groups
HIIT training builds leg, buttocks, core, back, arms, and shoulders muscles. Even better, HIIT workouts target multiple muscles at once. HIIT workouts provide total muscle training that enhances strength, endurance, and overall toning by engaging multiple muscle groups at once.
Intense Calorie & Fat Burning During and After Workouts
HIIT sessions are known for their high-calorie burn. In fact, a 30-minute HIIT workout can burn 25% to 30% more calories compared to other forms of exercise. The vigorous nature of HIIT boosts your metabolism, leading to increased calorie and fat burning both during and after your workouts. Unlike traditional exercise routines, your body burns calories even after the workout.
Promotes Good Heart Health & Blood Pressure
High-intensity exercise improves heart health and lowers blood pressure in many ways. First, it improves blood circulation and oxygenation of the cardiovascular muscles. Healthy cardiovascular muscles reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure.
Furthermore, regular HIIT exercise can help with lowering bad cholesterol levels. With a low cholesterol level, your blood pressure decreases. Your heart won't have to overwork to supply blood.
Can Reduce Stress
Engaging in HIIT workouts is a great way to relieve stress. The program promotes the production of endorphins, which elevate mood. This increase in endorphins helps to alleviate stress and reduce anxiety. This focus required during HIIT workouts diverts your attention away from stressors, allowing you to concentrate on achieving your fitness goals.
May Improve Oxygen Consumption
HIIT improves blood circulation helping deliver oxygen to the muscles and vital organs. The increased oxygen consumption improves heart health, energy levels, and stamina. Moreover, improved oxygen levels increase your body's ability to burn fat.
Can Help Reduce Blood Sugar Levels.
HIIT exercises have been shown to improve pancreatic function and normalize insulin production. The intensity of these workouts helps your muscles burn excess glucose for energy. By regulating blood sugar levels, HIIT training can be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Join The YMCA of Central Kentucky For Health and Fitness Classes
HIIT training is best done under the guidance of a skilled fitness trainer. Our experts ensure you perform the exercises following the right procedure. When it comes to health and fitness in Central Kentucky, the Y is your ideal provider.
The YMCA of Central KY's four innovative functional fitness spaces, designed for full-body strength and HIIT workouts, include a variety of cardio and strength equipment that go beyond dumbbells and treadmills - think spaces designed for athletic training, stability, balance, strength, core power, and more. Check out the ropes, bells, balls, landmines, bars, sleds, aqua bags, bands, and more!
Our trainers will customize a workout program to help you achieve your desired goals. Contact us or find a fitness facility near you to enroll for HIIT training.
