What are HIIT Workouts?
It can be frustrating to lift weights for several months and still have a bit of fat here and there. Unfortunately, this often happens, especially with stubborn belly fat. One routine people add to their plan are HIIT workouts. What makes these workouts so impressive? More importantly, why do they work when others don’t? Let’s take a closer look at what HIIT workouts really are.
What Are HIIT Workouts?
Imagine a workout that continues to burn calories long after the session is over. That’s exactly what HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts do. HIIT workouts are cardio based, but are far more intense than what most are used to. The intensity is so great that the body spends the rest of the day trying to make up for the spent energy – AKA burning fat.
The Benefits
There are numerous benefits to HIIT workouts. Obviously, the biggest benefit is being able to burn calories after the workout is done. Imagine being able to burn 9 times as many calories while watching TV or working on the computer. Another benefit is being able to spend less time working out. Because you’re pushing your body so hard, you get to work out less. Who really wants to spend an hour running on the treadmill when they could cut the time in half doing intense sprints? You’ll also be less likely to lose muscle mass when you opt for HIIT workouts.
The Dangers
HIIT workouts are not without risks. Because the workout requires you to push yourself so hard, it may be dangerous for those with bad hearts. Another danger is the increased use of oxygen, which may be dangerous to those with asthma or other breathing issues. Last, but not least, you are more prone to injury when working out at such an intense level.
Are HIIT workouts a good option for you? It depends. While there are several benefits to these workouts, there are also many risks. Those with health problems may find it extremely dangerous to take on such an intense workout. Last, but not least, those that decide to do this type of training before getting in shape, may injure themselves. However, HIIT workouts can be a wonderful way to kick those last few pounds to the curb without investing your entire afternoon to working out. Best of all, you’ll even burn calories long after the workout is over.
About the Author: Sharice Miniuk is an amateur athlete who is frequently asked about her conditioning and, specifically, how to get ripped fast. She always recommends incorporating at least some HIIT into a workout routine for maximum cardio conditioning.
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