Looking for a fitness regimen that will give you noticeable results quickly, while also providing a number of other health benefits? Maybe it’s time you got intense with your workouts.
High intensity basics
High intensity interval training (also known by the nickname HIIT) is, as you can probably guess from the name, based on intense bursts of activity. While the specifics may vary, the general idea is that your workout will include repeated rounds of high intensity effort, accentuated by recovery periods.
Benefits of this approach
High-intensity training is a great way to burn calories and work muscles quickly, but it also offers a number of other valuable benefits. This type of training is said to help improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, boost your cardiovascular health and perhaps even help with insulin sensitivity.
In addition, of course, it provides a great aerobic workout and can help you target abdominal fat while still maintaining or building muscle mass.
Flexibility lets you adapt
One of the great things about this type of workout is its flexibility. This basic approach can be used as the foundation for all sorts of specific types of exercise routines. You can develop a high-intensity program that incorporates various physical activities including running, biking, swimming and of course using different types of home fitness machines.
While the name might sound intimidating, high-intensity interval training can actually be modified to adapt to people with a wide range of physical abilities, including those who are overweight or have particular physical issues or limitations.
Recovery is critical
One of the most important elements of a high-intensity program is the recovery. It is critical that you incorporate recovery periods of sufficient duration and quantity into your routine. Your trainer can likely suggest a specific plan, but one popular approach is alternating “sprints” of training with recovery periods of equivalent length.
Safety is important
While intense workouts can be modified for people with physical limitations or lower fitness abilities, it’s important to be safe and use caution. You don’t want to dive right into an overly strenuous routine until you have at least established a decent basic fitness level. Start out gradually and work your way up. And of course you should always consult your doctor before starting any new fitness routine.
To learn about the fitness equipment we can offer for your Phoenix area home, contact Fitness 4 Home Superstore today.
