So you think you've heard all of the many benefits of HIIT training? Aside from fast fat loss and quick results, HIIT training is loved thanks to it's short, but sweet workouts. But what’s actually going on beneath the Lycra when you HIIT it hard?
1. You'll push yourself to the max
The clue is in the name. Moving at max intensity is the only way this will work. This style of training puts a large stress on your cardiovascular system and increases your body’s need for oxygen during the effort phase creating an oxygen shortage. This shortage tries to replenish itself during the recovery phase, however, due to the short nature of the recovery, the system doesn’t have time to recover fully before the next interval.
2. You’ll sweat - wear the glow with pride!
Sweating lots all part of the HIIT experience. But don’t reach for a towel between sets. For the body to lose heat through sweat, it must evaporate from the skin, so wiping it o will likely just increase overall sweat production. Wear your sweaty glow with pride.
3. You'll also rest for half the workout
A rest is as good as a rep. Yes, really. The ideal ratio for a 20-minute session is 30 seconds on, 60 seconds off. Resting for so long might feel like cheating, but your muscles need time to renew their oxygen and glycogen levels. Too little rest and your body becomes catabolic, breaking down muscle tissue.
4. You'll tap into your muscle glycogen (which metabolises fat)
To power a HIIT session, your body taps into muscle glycogen, not fat stores – calm down, if your goals include weight loss, this is a good thing. HIIT triggers a release of human growth hormone and testosterone – both play a key role in metabolising fat. For best results, go for a peak hormone response by incorporating compound movements into your session; think squats, lunges and burpees.
5. You'll burn calories for hours after
Your body is still burning calories while you’re busy shaking up your post-workout protein shake. This after-burn effect is known as Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption or “EPOC” and is the reason to why this style of training is so much more effective at burning calories and in turn fat than your steady state or regular aerobic exercise.
Simply put, you’re still burning calories for hours after your workout ends. You can amplify this effect by staying active, so consider Metafit as part of your daily routine.