Lets talk about HIIT….. for those of you who don’t know what that is …. High intensity Interval Training.  I have taught HIIT in various forms over the last 5 years, in 30 and 45 minutes session and now more recently in an 8 minute section on a Saturday morning.  HIIT is in the news again recently too, on current TV shows, explaining why this form of exercise is so good for you.  I am always going on about it!  It is the most efficient way, in a short space of time to burn fat and improve your cardio fitness.  In our Saturday class i have used various mixes… 50 seconds on and 15 of at one point and more recently we have reverted to the ‘tabata’ method of 20 seconds on and 10 off. HIIT works so well because the change between intense exercise and rest sends your body into a type of shock, your heart rate goes up and you burn lots of fat and continue to do so for some time afterwards.  HIIT is also great if you have limited time, as you can do it anywhere and current scientific research suggests you only need to do a few minutes 2 or 3 times a week to see the benefit in a relatively short space of time.

In my Saturday Bodyfit class we currently are using 20 seconds on and 10 off, and my ladies are saying they feel it is more achievable and realistic. I do vary the sequence of exercises to keep it interesting and keep everyone motivated. I also split the 2 x 10 minute sessions between another exercise track, to break it up.  All ages can do HIIT, as it is all about working to your own maximum potential. So next time you decide you want to burn fat and improve your all over fitness, HIIT really is one to consider.

Bev

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