Showcase of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors (SOURCE)

The Benefits of HITT Workouts

The benefits of exercise are well documented, but the advantages of high intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts may be able to help more people reap these benefits. HIIT workouts train the phosphagen energy system and normally use 30 seconds of exercise followed by 30 seconds of rest. These exercises are performed at 80% - 95% of the maximum heart rate. Studies have shown that HIIT workouts can help boost the levels of activity in physical education classrooms, in the workplace, and within the military. Some of the benefits of participating in HIIT workouts are found both physically and mentally. In schools, students are able to increase cardiovascular and metabolic function. If performed consistently, positive body composition changes will also occur. In studies conducted within the workplace, muscular fitness and cardiorespiratory fitness saw improvements over an 8-week study. Some other benefits included more time asleep and increased work productivity. In the military HIIT style workouts are performed and studies show that they also have many benefits. They show an increase in muscular strength and metabolic conditioning. HIIT workouts in the military often incorporate functional training that works to prepare them for combat task as well as general physical preparedness. Damage to the oxidative system and synthetic inflammation experience a decrease while HIIT workouts are performed. Overall, these studies show that the mental and physical benefits are great in number and the level of satisfaction for students, employees, and active duty military personal who perform HIIT workouts are high.