High Intensity Interval Training - (HIIT)

High Intensity Interval Training.

High Intensity Interval Training or HIIT alternates short periods of intense cardiovascular exercise with less intense anaerobic exercises recovery cycles until the point of exhaustion.

Results are impressive, and have converted HIIT into one of the most popular forms of physical training. Very popular with gym-goers and health enthusiasts all over the globe.
HIIT’s popularity comes from the fact that sessions are over much shorter than most workouts. Add the fact that the number of calories burned in minutes would require hours of cardio workouts.
An example would be to alternate walking and sprinting every 30 seconds. Then repeat the process for a number of rounds.
Some people will sprint for 30 seconds and stand still the next 30 seconds to catch their breath.

But does HIIT have to be running-based all of the time? Absolutely not. Here are some non-running-based examples of HIIT you could try.

Swimming

Swimming can actually be adapted to give you a very effective HIIT-based workout indeed. People often think of swimming as a low-impact endurance-based form of cardiovascular exercise, and while this is true, it can always be adapted to meet your HIIT needs. Swimming is great for the body because it helps to tone the muscles as it is resistance-based. This is due to the fact that you are fighting the water when you swim, so resistance is coming from the water. To perform a simple HIIT workout while swimming, simply perform some basic low-intensity swimming strokes that you’re comfortable with for around 30 seconds. Next, switch to a higher gear and swim as quickly and as intensely as you possibly can for the next 30 seconds. Repeat this process for around 8 – 10 rounds, making sure to really push yourself during the high intensity part of the exercise.

Cycling

Cycling is another form of cardiovascular exercise that is hugely beneficial, and highly underrated. When we cycle, we burn calories and helping to increase our endurance. We are also toning the muscles, especially those in our legs as we pedal. Head out on your bike somewhere relatively flat and quiet, where you can pick up speed and maintain it consistent. Then, simply cycle slowly and carefully for 30 seconds, and then accelerate as quickly as you can, for the next 30 seconds. Repeat this for another 8 – 10 rounds