We all know that maintaining an active lifestyle is beneficial not only for our physical health but also our mental wellbeing. But, one of the most common excuses I hear for not doing exercise is “I just don’t have time”. It can sometimes seem difficult to prioritise exercise in our weekly routines when we are busy with work and family life. Luckily there are more time efficient ways to maximise your workout, and it doesn’t even need to be outside (perfect for those rainy days).
It’s called High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Repeated intermittent exercise based on timed periods of 75-100% of effort followed by rest periods to allow for sufficient recovery time between sets. The small bursts of exercise span approximately between 1-3 minutes depending on the requirements of the exercise.
Benefits of HIIT:
- Improve VO2 max (maximal uptake of oxygen, reflecting our aerobic capacity)
- Improves vascular health and reduces risk of cardiovascular disease
- Improved metabolic rate
- More positive physiological changes to exercise in a shorter space of time
- Increased potential for weight loss
- Increased likelihood of long term adherence to exercise
This essentially means you are getting an increase in your fitness level, improving your metabolism, releasing endorphins, getting a sweat up and feeling a sense of accomplishment at the end of your workout. Note: For exercise to be effective, it does not need to be as time consuming as we all make it out to be!
At Bodyworks Subiaco we have recently commenced a CORE class based specifically on HIIT training principles. This is functional fitness that takes our pilates based principles and puts them into a high intensity cardio workout. It is the perfect option if you are searching for a fun, energising, cardio based session in your fitness regime.
Christina James
Physiotherapist