5 Benefits of HIIT Workouts
Whether you’re a regular at your gym, follow celebrity trainers on social media, or have been researching tips for effective workouts, you’ve likely heard the word HIIT. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), high intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts has been one of the most popular fitness trends since 2014.
So what exactly is HIIT? It is a challenging, yet fun, form of exercise that requires all-out bursts of high intensity, heart-pumping exercises, followed by short periods of rest. HIIT workouts are quick and efficient, while providing the results you want to see – like weight loss, improved strength and better all-around health. Read on to learn about five benefits of HIIT.
- Workouts are short
Short on time? HIIT workouts last only 15-30 minutes! And don’t think you won’t see results from these quick workouts. Since you are working out at such a high intensity, you can get the same benefits as longer, lower-intensity cardio workouts.
- Burn fat
HIIT workouts are great for fat loss. This is because it’s an anaerobic workout, meaning your muscles become deprived of oxygen and begin to use glucose as fuel while you’re performing bursts of all-out exercises. This helps you burn fat up to 48 hours post-workout. Also, since many HIIT workouts have you using your own body weight, you will be building muscle at the same time that you’re torching calories. More muscle=more calories burned at rest!
- Boost your metabolism
One of the reasons HIIT can help you lose weight, despite short workouts, is that you will burn calories hours after your workout is finished. In addition to speeding up your metabolism, HIIT also stimulates production of human growth hormones (HGH). As well as helping burn calories, HGH can slow down the aging process.
- Do HIIT anywhere
HIIT workouts can be tailored to what you enjoy most. Tabata-style workout classes are a very popular option. You can also build a HIIT workout routine on your own by running/walking in intervals on the treadmill or doing four to five rounds of body weight exercises like burpees, jumping jacks and squat jumps. As long as you are getting your heart rate up (to the point where you can’t speak, and you feel like your heart is going to pump out of your chest), you’ll see results.
- Challenging workouts for anyone
No matter your age or fitness level, HIIT workouts are do-able for everyone. Since the goal is to get your heart pumping at its max, you can go at your own pace. Workouts are designed to challenge you and push your limits. HIIT is anything but boring!
In short, HIIT workouts are hard, and they’re effective! No matter if you’re a seasoned athlete or new to working out, you’ll push yourself, increase your heart rate, and improve your overall health.
Get started with HIIT today
No more excuses! Bronson offers HIIT-style small group training programs at Bronson Wellness Center in South Haven and Bronson Athletic Club in Kalamazoo. Programs at both clubs combine the one-on-one attention of personal trainers with the camaraderie, motivation and fun of working alongside others working toward similar goals.
Learn about MX4 at Bronson Wellness Center
