HIIT, or high intensity interval training seems to be a relatively new buzzword in the fitness world, but, SURPRISE...it's not!
If you're a runner you've probably heard of Fartlek training. If you're not a runner, no I didn't just curse at you in a foreign language. It means "speed play" in Swedish. Basically, a version of interval training developed in the 1930s. This is NOT a new concept.
So, should you stop doing long, slow cardio and start doing intervals?
Yes...sort of!
Steady state cardio has its place and is valuable in many fitness plans but adding a HIIT workout to your weekly routine can benefit you in a lot of ways.
If you haven't done interval training yet, ease into it with one workout a week to start. The very simplest form of a HIIT workout would be something like this:
While on a run, start at a moderate pace for 5-10 minutes. Then using landmarks such as lampposts, street signs or driveways, sprint to a specific landmark then slow back to your moderate pace. After a couple minutes or another landmark, sprint again. Do this for 20-30 minutes and then a short cool-down. Super simple...super effective.
If you prefer a more specific plan you can time your intervals to be precise. Start with a 1:3 or 1:2 interval and gradually shorten your rest intervals over time.
Warm-up 10 minutes
Sprint 30 seconds, moderate pace 90 seconds
Repeat for 20-30 minutes
Cool-down 5-10 minutes
HIIT workouts are easy to create and easy to add to your fitness plan. Try one today!