HIIT, or High-Intensity Interval Training, involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by recovery periods. Although steady workouts like running are beneficial, HIIT may offer greater health advantages. This training method can help improve fitness, raise energy levels, and burn calories more efficiently. It also increases oxygen use after exercise, which helps muscles perform better.
Studies show that even a few weeks of HIIT can lead to better muscle mass and mitochondrial activity. Mitochondria are essential for producing energy in our cells, and their function naturally declines with age. However, HIIT has been found to boost mitochondrial health, which can lead to more energy and improved physical function.
HIIT is also linked to better weight loss results and may suppress the hunger hormone ghrelin, helping people eat less. A five-year study with older adults found that those who did HIIT twice a week had the lowest death rates compared to people who did moderate or minimal exercise. While HIIT is very effective and flexible, people with health conditions should be cautious not to overdo it.
Vocabulary:
• partial (adj): liking something more than others
• steady (adj): regular and continuous
• burst (noun): a short period of intense activity
• mitochondria (noun): parts of cells that produce energy
• ghrelin (noun): a hormone that causes hunger
• suppress (verb): to stop or reduce something
• mortality (noun): the state of being subject to death
• versatile (adj): able to be used in many ways
• underlying (adj): existing but not obvious; hidden
• intensity (noun): the strength or level of effort
• function (noun): the job something does
• decline (verb): to become weaker or lower
Source: BBC Global