High Intensity Interval Training – What Is It And How Do I Benefit From It?

High intensity interval training. We’re sure you’ve heard of it and we’re sure you’ve heard it’s beneficial for you. But you’re also probably scratching your head wondering ‘What is it exactly and HOW does it benefit me?’ It’s a popular form of exercise that combines two of the most effective fat-burning workouts: high intensity training and interval training. 

Let’s Start With High Intensity Training

High intensity training is a form of continuous resistance exercise characterised by a high level of effort and comparably brief and infrequent workouts. Rather than a slow and steady work out, this method uses maximum effort with minimal time.

In a nutshell, the harder your muscles work, the more oxygen they use. Let’s get the science part out of the way: Your body comes close to something called VO2 max when you train at high intensity, which is the maximum rate of oxygen consumption. Thus, creating the after burn effect. Your body continues to burn fat, with the after burn effect, up to 48 hours after you train. 

Basically, you exert your body by working as HARD and as FAST as you can possibly go.

Next Is Interval Training

Interval training is alternating periods of intense effort with periods of moderate to low effort. The science behind this method? You burn more calories than a steady work out, boost your metabolism AND it helps build lean muscle tissue faster than steady training

By combining these two workout methods, you’ve got the perfect solution to burn fat, create lean muscle and lose weight. With high intensity interval training, you’re creating maximum effort to achieve muscle fatigue and maximum oxygen use in short bursts of exercise. Studies have shown that 27 minutes of high intensity interval training 3x/week, produces the same aerobic improvement as 60 minutes of steady cardio 5x/week.

We know it can be tough trying to keep up with the fast growing trends of the exercise realm, so let us reassure you that this form of exercise is extremely effective for burning more calories in less time. For example; if you train at high intensity for a short burst (let’s say a minute,) then rest for a short burst (20 seconds,) 3 – 5 times over, you’re more likely to continue to burn calories throughout your busy day.

Why Is It So Effective?

High intensity interval training keeps your heart rate up and continues to burn calories long after you finish. While you’re getting the family dinner ready, you’re still burning calories. Your body is still working to burn.

Although a popular method of training, you need to make sure you listen to your body. This method makes it easier to overwork yourself and end up with an injury. Pushing yourself is great, but if you find it difficult to go on, make sure to stop.