What's HIIT
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an exercise strategy that alternates short periods of intense exercise with less intense recovery periods.
According to the BBC show, 'The Truth About Getting Fit', HIIT can burn more calories than 30 minutes of steady state cardio, such as running. It maximizes the calories burned in a very short period of time, and keeps burning calories in the 24 hours after the exercise.
Health Benefits of HIIT
HIIT is ideal for people who have a busy schedule. It's a highly effective, time-efficient way to burn calories and keep fit.
• In addition to increasing fat burning, including fat in the midsection, HIIT can stimulate the production of human growth hormone (HGH) by up to 450 percent, according to the research.
• HIIT can improve your VO2 max, the maximal amount of oxygen you can use during intense exercise. It reflects your cardiorespiratory fitness.
• HIIT involves deep muscles that traditional workouts cannot involve. These muscles are attached to bones, coordinate the activities of the body, support the bones and joints.
• HIIT helps your body quickly convert glycogen to energy, preventing excess glycogen from being stored as body fat.
• HIIT places your heart in the maximum heart rate zone with short intervals. It's effective at improving cardiovascular health.
Additional Resources
Wikipedia
BBC YouTube