So this morning I decided to change up my cardio routine and throw in a little High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). I have used this before, but probably not in 6-8 months or so. Today was the first time I did it using the elliptical machine.
To be honest I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, or if I could even do it. Anytime I try something new I am always a little hesitant about it. But I usually come across new research or training articles about the great benefits of HIIT and then it gets me thinking I should get back to it, or incorporate more into my program, which is how I came to do it this morning.
I used the elliptical in a 1:2 work to rest ratio. I would run, or whatever, you would call it on the elliptical, as fast and hard as I could for 30 seconds and then slow to a walking pace for 60 seconds. I would go through 11 cycles of this and be done in less than 20 minutes. I gave myself a few minute warm up when I got on the elliptical before I started the HIIT part.
The workout was awesome. I worked my butt off and was definitely pleased with how challenging it was. Mentally it was a battle to stay focused and push as hard as I can. My front running thought was, “You can do anything for 30 seconds.”
I am used to pushing hard and going all out, but the short bursts were something I am not used to in the cardio realm of things. I liked it and will continue to incorporate more of it in my cardio training.
Here’s the link to the latest article on HIIT training that got me thinking about it and using it again.
Check it out and let me know what you think.
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/ultimate-8-week-hiit-for-fat-burning-program.html
Frank Gigante Natural Pro 