We have talked about steady state cardio, so this week we are shifting gears and diving into the importance of H.I.I.T (High Intensity Interval Training). Opposite from steady state cardio, H.I.I.T training incorporates bursts where the heart rate and exertion level are meant to reach maximum, or near maximum, output. After the high exertion that lasts for a relatively short amount of time, the goal is to reduce the heart rate with a less intense movement, but not to stop moving while doing so.
Some research has reported that this type of cardio can help reduce stubborn belly fat everyone hates. Another benefit to a H.I.I.T workout is that they are usually shorter overall than a steady state cardio workout since they tend to be more physically taxing. Some may think that H.I.I.T workouts are not for beginners, but I do not agree with this. H.I.I.T workouts can be done at any level. Here are some examples of what a 30 minute H.I.I.T workout may look like for your experience level. Try one out and let me know what you think!
Beginner
Warm Up 5 min
Repeat Below 4 times
Modified jumping jacks 1 min
March or walk in place 30 sec
Sit to stands with chair 1 min
Lateral toe taps 30 sec
Modified burpees 1 min
March or walk in place 30 sec
Modified lunges 1 min
Lateral toe taps 30 sec
Intermediate
Warm Up 5 min
Repeat Below 4 times
Jumping jacks 1 min
March or jog in place 30 sec
Air Squats 1 min
Lateral toe taps 30 sec
No push up burpees 1 min
March or jog in place 30 sec
Lunges 1 min
Lateral toe taps 30 sec
Advanced
Warm Up 5 min
Repeat Below 4 times
Plyo jumping jacks 1 min
March orjogin place 30 sec
Jump Squats 1 min
Lateral toe taps or slow ice skaters 30 sec
Burpees 1 min
March orjogin place 30 sec
Plyo lunges 1 min
Lateral toe taps or slow ice skaters 30 sec
Live Well!
Coach Kenna, MS Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Worksite Wellness Coordinator