So, you want a workout that works for you. You want something high-intensity yet doable, energetic yet paced, upbeat and fun, and — most importantly — you want a heart-pounding workout that makes you sweaty but stronger. Cue HIIT training.
Glad you asked. HIIT training — or high-intensity interval training — is a revolutionary workout that combines a floor routine with interval treadmill training. The idea is to give it your all through fast and intense bursts of exercise, followed by short recovery periods. The goal is to get your heart pumping and kick start fat burn.
HIIT is great for both beginners and those who are more advanced, regardless of fitness levels and goals. Since high-intensity workouts increase the body’s need for oxygen, your body will require more oxygen during recovery, resulting in an afterburn effect. This effect of an intense workout helps to burn more fat and calories than through your normal gym routine.
You can make HIIT work for you as much as you are working during it. Since the idea is to work in short yet intense bursts, HIIT workouts are short. That’s good news for busy moms, those on the 9-to-5 grind, and for anyone leading an active lifestyle.
Curious about the benefits of HIIT exercise? Here are a few:
By combining high-intensity with interval training, your metabolic rate pics up and that translates into a short-term metabolism boost. It’s also fast and convenient, and you don’t need any weights or fancy equipment to get started. Most HIIT workouts only require your own body weight, since they are focused on getting your heart pumping.
This results in optimal muscle building and retention, as well as calorie burn. In addition, HIIT also helps improve stamina and physical performance. You will burn more calories in a shorter period of time, have a better chance at reducing abdominal fat, and you might even see lowered blood pressure. The optimal HIIT rate is usually about 80% to 90% percent of your maximum heart rate.
The science here lies in something called excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, or EPOC. This is commonly referred to as the aforementioned “afterburn effect.” Because your body is requiring more oxygen during an intense workout, it will burn more fat and calories. Getting and keeping your heart rate up is a key factor in building muscle and burning fat.
The good news here is that you don’t have to spend an hour or more at the gym to complete an effective HIIT workout. Because HIIT only requires short bursts of intense exercise, some workouts can be done in as little as 30 minutes. Not having to carve out as much time from your busy day, yet achieving the results you want at the same time, is a win-win.
There are many variations of HIIT studios available, but one of the keys to finding the right fit for you is looking at the instructor’s’ background. Before you try a studio, ask if their instructors are credentialed — bonus points if they are also certified personal trainers.
Decide whether you prefer to be in a bigger class or a smaller class. If you’re looking for more one-on-one attention from your instructor, it might be better to choose a studio with a smaller class-size ratio. If you want to be around other people for more motivation, selecting a larger class might be your best bet.
What makes a good HIIT studio is the one that works best for you. You’ll want to find a studio that’s in a convenient location, with class times that are convenient for you. Take the time to do some research and take classes with instructors you like learning from. Additionally, know that there are different variations of HIIT training and pick the one that you are most comfortable with.
With many options out there, it can be a task to choose the best Miami fitness studio for you. At KAMPS, the goal is to “HIIT it hard.” Classes at KAMPS last about 50 minutes and classes consist of high-energy music with skilled instructors leading the way. Class attendees receive constant motivation and will achieve a well-rounded HIIT workout.
KAMPS currently has three locations, and it is quickly establishing itself as one of the best gyms in Miami, FL. Depending on the day, you’ll target a specific muscle group as you continue to keep your heart rate up, strengthen and tone muscles, and burn those calories. Classes are designed for all ages and skill levels.