High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has the fitness industry abuzz – Here are 5 reasons why HIIT makes the ultimate workout

Words by Helen Brown

5 Reasons HIIT Makes a Seriously Good Workout

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has the fitness industry abuzz due to its potential to torch maximum calories in minimum time. The idea is to complete short, intense periods of working out at your maximum, followed by short periods of active rest. This requires your body to work harder than it does during something like steady-state cardio. As well as  producing quick results, it gets you in and out of the gym in no time. Sounds like a win-win.

We spoke to Mila Lazar, Head of HIIT at Another_Space, on the five reasons why HIIT should be your next workout.

1. It’s Efficient

If there’s ever a time we’re looking for excuses, it’s when we’re meant to hit the gym. Mila says, “Londoners lead hectic lifestyles and obviously, something’s got to give in a crammed diary. HIIT workouts can be done in as little as 15 minutes and don’t require a ton of equipment so can be done in a flat, park or even small area in your local gym.”

2. You’ll Burn Fat

“The after burn produced during HIIT, also known as EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption) increases your metabolic rate as well as using body fat as an energy source rather than muscle mass. This means you can shed fat quickly without losing any of that lovely lean muscle definition.”

3. Stronger Heart

HIIT training sessions push your heart rate to 90-100% of its maximum within a set time frame and its compound exercises are physically exhausting. Mila says, “A fast paced, ongoing repetition of the same exercise, executed in a short tie frame, creates an oxygen deprivation that causes higher energy expenditure during the recovery that can last up to 48 hours. This will get your heart and body working to its max and achieving more than ever.”

4. It’s Challenging

HIIT is not the kind of workout that let’s you hold a conversation with a friend at the same time. You’re constantly moving and working the entire time through a range of motions that will work your entire body. Be prepared to sweat.

5. It’s Actually Fun

Mila says, “At Another_Space our aim is to not only push you in the workout, but create a fun environment. Our HIIT classes are no longer than 45 minutes and are equipped with boxing bags, TRX and sand bells, and bespoke playlists to power you through the workout.”

View classes available at anotherspace.london