Has your workout gotten stale in 2021? It can be tricky to keep things interesting and beneficial to your overall health and wellness. Still, it is important to find exercise that is both challenging and enjoyable in order to remain dedicated to the process. Enter high intensity interval training (HIIT.)
What is High Intensity Interval Training?
High intensity interval training describes any workout that alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or rest. It can easily incorporate cardio and weight-centric exercise for a combination tailored to meet your goals. HIIT is not a new concept; interval training has become especially popular in the last five to ten years thanks to the rise of Tabata and CrossFit programs. Despite these options traditionally being found in a gym setting, HIIT training can easily be done in the comfort of your home or office.
There is still some question about who should participate in high intensity interval training because some view it as an exercise method for those who are already in good shape. The truth is, anyone at any age or fitness level may benefit from adding a HIIT component to their exercise routine. You don’t even have to leave the house or join a large specialty gym to make it part of your life.
Weight Loss from HIIT
But does it work for weight loss? Absolutely. Several studies indicate that both HIIT and traditional exercise can reduce weight and waist size, but HIIT may be able to achieve those results in half the time.
High intensity interval training is quick and convenient- most sessions can be done in 15 to 20 minutes. That’s great news for busy parents and professionals who only have a lunch break or nap time to devote to their fitness. In just 3 days a week, research shows you can achieve more progress in short bursts of HIIT training than spending an hour on the treadmill. It’s also great for your cardio health. According to Harvard health, shorter workouts help build endurance over time which is a good thing for your heart!
How to Start
Getting started with a high intensity interval training program is easier than you may think. Use your own body weight or items around the house for strength intervals, and complete series of high impact cardio like burpees, push-ups, squats, or bursts of power walking outdoors.
Whether a beginner or advanced fitness participant, starting with a structured workout routine can help you build healthy habits into your lifestyle. Jacob’s Ladder has laid the groundwork for you with easy-to-navigate workouts incorporating our state-of-the-art climbers. Climbing is an excellent way to get a full body interval workout.
“After a year of trying to keep up with at-home streaming workouts, I lost interest and started to fall back into unhealthy habits. We invested in a Jacob’s Ladder X for our home and it was one of the best decisions we’ve made. It immediately added a new element to our exercise routine and kept things challenging. I started using JL’s recommended HIIT workouts to get started and it set me on a whole new path. I’m already down 8 pounds!”
- Jeanine Kaznowski
How to Do High Intensity Interval Training at Home
The Jacobs Ladder and Jacobs Ladder 2 are great additions to home or professional spaces with limited square footage. With their smaller footprint, both fit well in a bedroom, basement or living room area. For seasoned exercise enthusiasts and athletes, the all-new Jacobs Ladder X is ideal for your home gym. With four different climbing positions and a range of intensity levels, the JLX is designed to accommodate high intensity interval training and push users to achieve their ultimate weight loss goals quickly. A redesigned display and dashboard lend to ease of use, meaning you can focus on your workout and the machine will adjust to your level and desired outcome.
All Jacobs Ladder machines are excellent investments in your health and happiness. We invite you to learn more about the new Jacobs Ladder X and all the ways in which it can bring your fitness to another level. Connect with an equipment expert today with any questions you have, or to seek advice on how to work stair climbing into your full body high intensity interval training workout. We know you’ll reach your goals!