What is HIIT training?
HIIT stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. In this training you alternate between high and low-intensity exercise(s) or between high-intensity exercise and short periods of rest.
Why HIIT?
- Lose body fat
- Keep/strengthen your muscle
- Strengthening the cardiovascular system
- Equipment is not necessary
- Develop ‘mental toughness’
- Increase your metabolism
- The ability to tolerate a high level of intensity repeatedly
How to do HIIT?
There are many ways to do HIIT. You just need to remember the basic principle. Here some examples of HIIT training:
- The Tabata
20 seconds of ultra-fast rowing alternated with 10 seconds of relaxed recovery rowing, for a total of 8 intervals or 4 minutes.
- Circuits
- Sprint up a hill and do push ups
- Burpees
- Jumping squads
- Rest
Mel’s favorite HITT training:
Perform this on any cardio machine: 20 seconds high speed (85-95Hf/max) followed by 40 seconds slow motion (really slow). Repeat 12 times. Do this 3 times a week in combination with solid strength training like Brazil Boom and Top Body and say good-bye to the fat that’s hiding your abs!
The intensity of each workout is depending on you. The more you do it, the more intensity you can handle.
Please note: never forget to warm up and cool down when performing HIIT!