The many benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), from head to toe

Exercise is an important aspect of daily life that most people tend to overlook. This is particularly true now that more people are working from home and are unable to go to the gym and work out. People who lead busy lives also have trouble finding the time to exercise, let alone getting the motivation to do an hour-long workout routine after a packed schedule. If this is you, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be just what you need.

Unlike most exercise routines where you need to devote at least an hour every day, HIIT exercises are quick and are designed to push you to your limits. Because of its high-intensity nature, HIIT is one of the best cardio exercises you can do at home, and here are several reasons why:

#1 Burns fat faster

HIIT workouts greatly increase your metabolism, helping you burn fat faster than a regular cardio workout would. Even after your workout, your body will continue to burn fat thanks to the effects of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC).

#2 Helps build and maintain muscle mass

In addition to burning fat, HIIT exercises also build lean muscle. This is because HIIT workouts promote the production of anabolic hormones responsible for building new muscle tissue in your body. The shorter exercises of HIIT also allows you to maintain muscle mass better than you would with longer workouts, which can cause your body to use your muscles as a fuel source. In fact, extended workouts can result in reduced muscle mass.

#3 Improves blood circulation and glucose levels

Doing HIIT workouts can improve your blood vessel dilation and flow. This effect is particularly beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. In addition, people who do HIIT exercises manage their glucose levels better than those who do not.

#4 Strengthens cardiovascular activity

High-intensity exercises increase your heart rate and oxygen consumption by improving your VO2 max, the amount of oxygen your body uses per kilo of body weight. When done regularly, HIIT workouts can significantly strengthen your cardiovascular system, providing you with more stamina to perform more intense exercises.

#5 Fights the signs of aging

Research has shown that HIIT exercises can have a profound effect on cellular aging. Researchers studied three types of training exercises, namely combined training, resistance training, and HIIT. They found that combined training and HIIT improved the mitochondrial function and aerobic capacity of the test subjects. They also found that HIIT can improve your body's ability to produce and synthesize proteins. This can help prevent muscle degradation, a major effect of aging.

If you're looking to get into HIIT you can easily book a class using our mobile app. The Facet Seven app provides you with a schedule of all our available classes, and a simple booking system that will allow you to choose a time and date that works for you. Sign up for our mobile app today.

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