HIIT, or high-intensity interval training, is a highly effective cardio workout that keeps your heart rate high and burns more fat in less time. Why spend hours running on the treadmill, elliptical, or Stairmaster, when you can burn the same amount of calories (or more) with a quick 15-20 minute circuit? HIIT workouts are done in intervals that require an intense boost of energy, followed by an anaerobic recovery period. HIIT is great for a metabolism boost, increased heart health, and for post-recovery fat burn. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of HIIT training, and why it has become such a popular choice in place of traditional cardio.
Increased Heart Rate and Metabolism Boost
HIIT can be done in intervals on the treadmill or stair master, or even with just bodyweight exercises, making it a convenient cardio plan if you’re in a time crunch with limited equipment. Adding high-intensity circuits reduces the amount of time you need to spend on cardio- A dream come true, right? High-intensity interval training uses intense bursts of exercise in which you push your body to one hundred percent, followed by equally long rest periods. Because of this amount of exertion, your metabolism and heart rate stays elevated and continues to burn calories for hours after your workout as your body replenishes its energy and repairs your muscles. This type of training causes an oxygen shortage during your workout and then requires more oxygen afterward during recovery which can also speed up your metabolism for up to 48 hours after you’ve finished your HIIT session.
Burn More Calories
HIIT is effective because of the amount of oxygen your body, especially your muscle mass, requires to burn calories. Your body burns five calories per liter of oxygen consumed, so HIIT is the perfect way to efficiently burn the most amount of calories possible during any cardio workout. HIIT is also known as the best optimal muscle building and muscle retention exercise. This type of interval training is incredible for heart health and your heart’s ability to pump blood. The maximum amount of blood pumped through your heart is increased by exercising which also will help with high blood pressure.
Schedule a Consultation at Back Bay Bit
Want to learn more about HIIT, and how this can be combined with other workout techniques for an efficient workout plan? Get in touch with the personal trainers at Back Bay Fit to schedule a free consultation and get started today. We’ll create a plan for you that incorporates HIIT cardio into your weekly workout routine. Fill out an online contact form or call us today at 617-450-0001.