Bowflex® Fit Tip | HIIT Training - BodyFit by Amy

HIIT. Chances are you’ve heard of it---at your local gym or fitness studio, when looking up workouts online, or when researching how to get the most bang for your buck in a workout. HIIT stands for High-Intensity Interval Training and it’s been all the rage for the last several years when it comes to the “best” workout. But what is HIIT really? And is it right for you?

HIIT is defined as short intervals of high-intensity exercise, followed by a rest or lower intensity interval. In a true HIIT format, intervals would be short; around 20-30 seconds, at almost maximum effort (around 80-90 %) followed by a recovery period. HIIT requires your body to shift from aerobic mode (using oxygen) to anaerobic modes (using stored energy) resulting in higher heart rates and calorie burn. HIIT is not just trendy, it’s an effective way to get results in a short amount of time.

What are the benefits of HIIT? Competitive athletes see improvements in explosive power, speed, and agility. Studies have also shown HIIT workouts burn more calories in less time, and recruit multiple muscles working together. In addition, you’ll experience the “afterburn effect” or EPOC (Excess Post Oxygen Consumption), meaning you’ll be burning more calories for up to two hours post-workout.

Whether you’re doing a true HIIT workout or a modified interval training format, here are some things to keep in mind to get the most out of your HIIT session. - High intensity does not have to mean high impact. - Recovery is part of the process. - Go heavy for HIIT. So don’t forget about your classic power moves like a clean, snatch or kettlebell swing!

Ready to give HIIT a try? Here’s a kettlebell routine that you can try out at home. Kettlebell HIIT Do each for 30 seconds, followed by a 30-second rest.