What to Know About HIIT Before You Start
If you're unfamiliar, HIIT stands for high-intensity interval training. It's a simple acronym but an epic workout, alternating intense bursts of exercise with "rest" periods, during which you'll move at a more leisurely pace. HIIT workouts typically last no longer than 30 minutes. While you may have heard that you need to spend hours on your cardio machine of choice to see a difference, research has shown that HIIT can yield better results in less time.
While you can do a HIIT workout using any form of cardio, Wood recommends the elliptical because it's easier on your joints. "Cardio can be hard on your knees, hips, or feet, so if you can't swim every day, get on an elliptical and your body will thank you," Wood explained.
That being said, the intense nature of HIIT workouts can be a lot for anyone to take on a regular basis. As a result, Wood cautions clients to limit their HIIT workouts to about three sessions per week. "At first, people hate HIIT workouts, but they can be addictive," Wood said. "Don't allow yourself to burn out by doing it too often. A few times a week is sufficient."