HIIT is the abbreviation for high-intensity interval training. Short, very demanding work phases lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes alternate with equally short recovery phases in which the load is clearly reduced or paused entirely. Typical exercises are sprints, burpees, squat jumps or cycling at a high cadence, but HIIT can just as well be done with many other forms of movement. A session often lasts only 10 to 25 minutes, yet because of the high intensity it is considered comparatively demanding for the heart, circulation and muscles.
Compared with longer, steady endurance training, HIIT sets a high training stimulus for fitness in less time, but the load per minute is correspondingly more intense and requires a certain basic fitness.
Relevance for training and nutrition
HIIT works well as a complement to strength training when little time is available, for example as part of HIIT at home. Because of the high intensity, sufficient recovery between sessions is important, as is an energy intake adapted to the training, so that the intense stimuli do not lead to lasting exhaustion. In the case of pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, HIIT should be checked by a doctor first.
