HIIT and Tabata training

Our group exercise classes evolve over the years as new research surfaces and clients have more specific goals and expectations.  As group exercise instructors, we need to stay on top of what is most effective and also interesting for our members.

High Intensity Interval Training or High Intensity Intermittent Exercise training has been making fitness headlines of late.  We are always looking for the best quality workout in the shortest a amount of time possible as our lives become busier. HIIT is a form of interval training including short periods of anaerobic exercise versus short recovery periods.

Research has shown that this style of training strengthens major muscles such as the heart, will increase muscle strength and cardio fitness at the same time, can increase metabolism.

Within the the interval training arena is Tabata Training where the split is traditionally 20 seconds of maximum training versus 10 seconds of rest for 4 minutes in total.  It is important to note that the 20 seconds needs to be the absolute best you can do and therefore with this type of training, recovery days are essential.  The split timing can also be customized to our clients needs.

In a class, the concept can be used with, for example, squats.  Guiding the class to 10 seconds of normal body weight, shoulder width squats and for those who are wanting to push themselves, 20 seconds of squat jumps.  We encourage the members to work without stopping.  The same can be done with lunges versus split jumps and even with push-ups and tricep dips.

It's a great way of challenging those participants who have become comfortable with our regular consistent conditioning training or light cardio drills and also gives them an opportunity to challenge themselves.