HIIT sounds intimidating… but don’t let this acronym fool you! High-Intensity Interval Training classes involve short bursts of challenging exercise alternated with periods of rest. So, even though HIIT workouts pack some punch, they shouldn’t scare you away!
While it's true that HIIT can be a vigorous workout, you don't necessarily need to be "fit" to join a class. Most classes are designed to be scalable, meaning that exercises can be modified to meet the needs and abilities of each individual participant.
If you're new to exercise or haven't been active in a while, it may be a good idea to start with just one HIIT class per week, and gradually work your way up to two classes. This will help you build a base level of fitness and reduce the risk of injury. HIIT classes can be a great way to improve your fitness, build strength, and challenge yourself. Just remember to listen to your body, take breaks as needed, and work at your own pace.
Here's what you can expect in a typical HIIT class:
Warm-up: The instructor will guide you through a dynamic warm-up that includes movements to get your heart rate up and your body prepared for the workout.
High-Intensity Intervals: The bulk of the class will consist of high-intensity exercises, such as jumping jacks, squats, burpees, and other movements that are performed for short intervals (typically 20-30 seconds). These exercises are designed to get your heart rate up and work your muscles to fatigue. Don’t stress if your body can’t star jump or skip: the instructor always has low impact options available that will still work your body!
Recovery: After each high-intensity interval, it’s common that you'll have a short period of recovery, which often includes a low-intensity exercise. Think of a wall sit, you continue to engage those muscles whilst you catch your breath. It’s less taxing on your body but it still keeps you working.
Cool-down: At the end of the class, you'll go through a series of stretches to help your body recover and prevent injury. Fun fact! Class typically finishes with a solid stretch. We highly recommend that you don’t hurry off. Waking up with muscle soreness the morning after isn’t ideal. No one wants that!
Don’t be surprised if you get addicted to how powerful your body feels after a few HIIT workouts! Tabata, which consists of 8 exercises with pauses and numerous reps, or Circuit, which consists of one block of exercise at each station, are used in PPF’s HIIT classes. All you’ll need is a towel, a water bottle, and some supportive sneakers!
Overall, a HIIT class is designed to push you to your limits and challenge you both physically and mentally. It's a great way to improve your cardio fitness, build strength, and burn calories in a short amount of time. Just be prepared to sweat!
Interested in learning more about HIIT? Read our blog What is HIIT Training? to find out why you should incorporate it into your exercise regime!
Wanting to try a HIIT class from home? Sign up to our online studio to access hundreds of workouts, from beginner to advanced. Or, if you live in the Brisbane area,come join us for a HIIT class in our Camp Hill, Coorparoo or Milton group fitness studios.
