by Amber White

ChiroHealthUSA Social Media Specialist

Do you know you need to work out more, especially in these new sedentary times, but still can’t find the right exercise routine for you? Why not try a HIIT workout? Not everyone can commit to an hour of working out in the gym or running laps around a track, and most of us do not want to. With HIIT workouts, you can get your heart pumping and your body moving in less than half the time of a traditional cardio workout with just as much benefit.

What is a HIIT Workout?

HIIT stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. HIITs are comprised of interval workouts done in short bursts with little to no downtime. During these high-intensity exercises, you give it your all through intense high-energy periods followed by brief, sometimes active, recovery periods. These workouts are designed to get your heart rate up and burn more fat in less time. Most sessions last only 20 to 30 minutes. Exercises you can expect to perform are push-ups, sit-ups, jump squats, and burpees, just to name a few.

The Benefits of HIIT Workouts

Besides HIIT workouts leaving more time to complete your to-do list (or not complete it, we don’t judge), there are also other benefits to this type of interval training. HIIT workouts result in excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), which speeds up your metabolic rate (increases metabolism). HIIT workouts also require no equipment. These workouts utilize your body weight to get your heart rate up and yield the fitness results you aim for through full-body exercise. Another reason why HIIT workouts are so popular is that you can do them just about anywhere; from your living room to a neighborhood park nearby.

So, if you’re ready to incorporate quick, heart-pumping workouts into your daily routine, then HIIT IT!