Everything You Need to Know about HIIT

At PUSH Gym, we’re firm believers in the power of a HIIT workout. But you might have some questions that you’ve been too shy to ask: What is HIIT? Why does it work? Here’s our quick and easy guide to HIIT and everything you need to know.
HIIT is an acronym: high-intensity interval training. As the name suggests, the intensity is high, pushing you beyond the energy and effort typically required of lower-intensity exercises like swimming, walking and light jogging. During a HIIT class, “you’ll work up a sweat fast, working at a very intense level and then backing off for a (shorter) recovery period, followed by another round of high intensity” movement, according to WebMD. It lists benefits as weight loss, muscle building, metabolic improvements and, most notably, cardio-vascular improvements.  
 
HIIT combines strength training with cardio. For example, that may mean both rowing and squats, running and bench presses, or burpees and deadlifts included in any given circuit. Coaches at PUSH often utilize compound exercises, which work several parts of the body at once. Sometimes, you’ll learn the difference between a dumbbell and a kettlebell, and, other times, you’ll alternate between using heavy battle ropes and slide boards. You’ll balance pushing, pulling and rotational movements throughout our PUSH-PULL HIIT circuit classes.
 
On top of the immediate effects (who doesn’t like a good sweat?), the results of HIIT exercise can be long lasting. According to UC Davis Health, “studies have also showed that high-intensity workouts may help lower blood pressure and heart rate.” Your body will thank you for the work!