May 13, 2015 -- Less than half of all adults in the U.S. get the recommended physical activity each week.
Regular physical activity reduces the risk of many diseases and increases life expectancy.
May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, a great time to renew one’s commitment to a healthy, active lifestyle and to spread the word about the benefits of physical fitness.
An effective method of enhancing physical performance, over traditional endurance-based training, is through high intensity interval training. It’s a cardio respiratory training technique that involves repeated periods of high intensity effort followed by either a low intensity period or complete rest. This concept is becoming increasingly popular among athletes and recreational exercisers alike.
Most endurance workouts, such as walking, running or stair climbing, are performed at a moderate intensity or an exertion level of about five to six on a scale of zero-10. High intensity intervals, however, are typically done at an exertion level of seven or higher, but last for shorter periods of time (typically a few seconds to several minutes).
Total workout time can range from four to 30 minutes, and can be done in a variety of settings such as exercise machines with variable speeds and resistance, group fitness classes, outdoor running, and even resistance training.
Benefits of HIIT can include: improved heart and lung function; enhanced metabolic function (how well the body creates and uses energy); increased metabolic rate; increased maximal oxygen consumption; improved blood pressure and cholesterol; and reduced subcutaneous body fat (the fat under the skin, such as around the abdomen and thighs).
Elite athletes and sedentary individuals alike have benefited from HIIT. However, those who aren’t currently exercising should consult their doctors and obtain medical clearance prior to engaging in HIIT. Recommended guidelines include exercising within one’s own capabilities, allowing adequate rest between exercises and workout sessions, and maintaining proper form for all exercises. For best results, add one or two sessions per week to regular exercise routines and work toward a balance of HIIT with continuous aerobic exercise.
Call Naval Branch Health Clinic Albany’s Health Promotions at 229-639-9535 or visit the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center’s website, www.nmcphc.med.navy.mil, for more information.