After a while, going to the gym and using the same machines each time can start to feel very redundant. Personally, I shy away with equipment I am not very familiar, which even further limits the variety of my workouts. Luckily, Penn State offers HIIT workout classes multiple times a week, which allow me to try new exercises and get out of my same old patterns. HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training, and the idea behind this type of workout is to exercise intensely for a short amount of time, have several seconds of break and then move onto the next movement. You then complete this cycle multiple times. HIIT workouts offer many benefits with some of the most notable being they do not put a lot of strain on the body, are quick, and can introduce you to new types of exercises.
Personally, I think the best thing about HIIT workouts is how they typically focus on bodyweight exercises and resistance training. Lifting heavy weights can cause a tremendous amount of strain on your back and joints, especially if someone has not spent a lot of time using the equipment before. Furthermore, running on hard pavement can cause an equal amount of problems with someones body, especially to their knees, shins, and ankles. HIIT offers a safe alternative, as the focus is more centered around lots of quick movements with light weight, or even no weight depending on each move. I really enjoy the exercises with the resistance bands because I can make them as difficult or easy as I choose, and I never feel sharp pains. This type of conditioning is always a safe and reliable option.
Also, I think the class setting for the HIIT workouts at Penn State is great because I never have to come up with the ideas myself. There is an instructor leading the way with what movements we do, the time limits, and how many rotations we go through. I also think they are very helpful in explaining variations to the group so each person can adjust the class to their own personal level. Nobody in the class is ever pressured to keep up with others because each person has the ability to choose their own weight level and speed at which they workout. This is one of the best options for people like me who are looking to be challenged, but don’t necessarily know what they want to do next.
Fitness Youtuber Natacha Oceane
I would still recommend HIIT workouts to anybody, even if someone does not prefer the class setting. There are many videos on youtube offering different ways to do this type of training with no equipment and in a space as big as a dorm room. These are nice because you have the ability to select what body area you would like to target. HIIT is easy, versatile and possible for people of all body types and ages; it is one of my favorite ways to continue to improve my health.