By Sam Cortes, Communications Coordinator

Have you ever had one of those days where you can’t be bothered to spend 45 minutes to an hour in the gym? Or, maybe you simply just don’t have the time some days.

If so, HIIT is for you! 

 

What is HIIT?

High Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, is a form of circuit training where you alternate between a work period of moderate to vigorous intensity followed by a rest period. 

This is an effective way of increasing your heart rate, and it doesn’t take long to complete your workout!

 

HIIT Tips

For a HIIT workout, alternate between 40 seconds of the exercise and 20 seconds of rest before moving on to the next one.

Of course, make sure you start your workout with a warm-up and end with a cool-down and stretch. 

 

HIIT Exercises

Here’s an example of great exercises you can use in a HIIT workout.

 

40 seconds: Squat Thrusters 
20 seconds: Rest

40 seconds: Monster Walks 
20 seconds: Rest

40 seconds: Table Tops Taps
20 seconds: Rest

 

40 seconds: Dumbbell Swing
20 seconds: Rest

Other great HIIT exercises include butt kicks, plank jacks, and Z jumps!

To decrease the chance of muscle cramps, avoid sitting or lying down on the ground in between exercises.

Questions? Let us know! Reach out to fitness@sportmanitoba.ca, 204-925-5931, or come visit us at Member Services next time you’re at the gym.