High-intensity interval training is a type of exercise that combines intense bursts with periods for rest. This form trains the body by providing large amounts of brief but very challenging physical efforts followed by lower-intensity workpieces to give it an extra boost in fat-burning capacity while improving metabolism and hormonal responses without overdoing things or putting unnecessary stress on joints like low-impact activities might do. HIIT has become popular due to its potential to help people lose weight and improve their overall fitness levels in a relatively short period. But does it work? Let’s take a look at the science behind HIIT to find out.
What is High-Intensity Interval Training, and Does It Help You Lose Weight?
How HIIT Works
HIIT workouts involve alternating periods of intense physical activity with periods of rest or light activity. This type of workout allows you to push your body’s limits while giving it enough recovery time to prevent injury and exhaustion. The goal is to achieve maximum intensity during the active intervals and then recover during the rest periods. The question is, does high-intensity interval training work?
The Benefits of HIIT
Research suggests that high-intensity interval training can help you burn more calories in a shorter time than traditional steady-state cardio exercises such as jogging or cycling. When you do high intensity exercise, you continue to burn calories after exercise, also known as Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC). Furthermore, because HIIT workouts are usually shorter than traditional steady-state cardio workouts, they may be easier for some people to fit into their busy schedules.
The Downsides Of HIIT
We all have this all-or-nothing mindset – it’s either I do it all the way/perfectly or not at all. That is a detrimental mindset because results come from what you do on average, not the number of times you do it perfectly.
For example, you may aim to eat lesser every day of the week to lose weight, and you have been successful for four consecutive days. However, on the 5th day, you eat something “sinful” in the morning and feel that it has destroyed your efforts, so therefore, you let yourself go for the rest of the day/week, thinking that you can restart the next day/week. Something that may cost you a small number of additional calories has now rolled over to a much more significant amount because of this all-or-nothing mindset.
Aim to do well most of the time, and even if you are not successful sometimes, keep it from derailing you by getting back on track quickly. As a bonus, when you expect yourself to be flawed only some of the time and even plan for small indulges, it will keep you more motivated and stay on course for much longer, giving you much more outstanding results.
Our personal training students often get worried when they don’t get it perfectly well; We smiled, reassured, and encouraged them because it’s not about being perfect all the time, it’s about doing consistently well most of the time. Do not worry.
Conclusion
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an effective way for people looking for burn a bit more calories for a shorter period of time from their exercise routine. However, it should be noted that this type of workout requires maximum effort during each interval, so caution must be taken when performing these exercises to minimise the risk of injury or exhaustion; seeking guidance and the best personal training from professionals when starting is highly recommended. All things considered, there is no one exercise method that is superior than the others, so find something that you like, suits your lifestyle, and you can do consistently, and you will achieve long term success. Looking to try high-intensity interval training but wondering if it’s right for you? Contact Vigeo’s Personal Traning in Singapore today and find out how we can help you reach your fitness goals safely and effectively!
