Taking a Closer Look: High Intensity Interval Training

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Many people often ask me what the HIIT stands for in our Pilates HIIT classes. HIIT is short for High Intensity Interval Training. While the Pilates classes we currently offer at the studio utilize traditional Pilates principles, they also incorporate High Intensity Interval Training. So what is High Intensity Interval Training and why is it beneficial to our students?

By definition High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is "a system of organizing cardiorespiratory training which calls for repeated bouts of short duration, high-intensity exercise intervals intermingled with periods of lower intensity intervals of active recovery." This type of training causes the heart rate to continuously increase and decrease, never allowing the body to plateau. It also allows us to combine Aerobic movements (cardio) with Anaerobic movements (strength) to simultaneously improve stamina and strength. So what are the benefits of this type of training?

  • Fast & Efficient Results: HIIT is a very efficient way to build muscle while burning fat. It is also a great way to get an amazing workout in a short amount of time making it ideal for a busy schedule. Did I mention 20 minutes of HIIT is the equivalent of 45 minutes of running on the treadmill?
  • Improved Metabolism: HIIT boosts your metabolism which helps you burn fat. So, not only are you blasting calories during class, but you will also continue to burn more calories long after your workout is over.
  • Healthier Heart: Considering that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States, we should all be proactive about our heart health . HIIT is perfect for improving the cardiovascular system in a short amount of time.
  • Increased Mental Strength: During our Pilates HIIT classes we utilize Tabata (20 seconds of hard work with 10 seconds of rest). As many of my students know, sometimes that 20 seconds of intensity feels like 20 minutes. However, when we push ourselves to complete these high intensity workouts, we find that we improve our mental strength, stamina, and will power. These benefits stay with us long after we complete our training.

Combining Pilates Principles with High Intensity Interval Training allows us to create a powerful core, strong muscles, and increased endurance. Check out our class schedule below and come try it out for yourself!