HIIT is the acronym for “High-Intensity Interval Training” and it serves as a great workout option for someone who wants to burn a serious amount of calories in a small amount of time. Basically, HIIT workouts consist of periods of max or sub-max effort exercise utilizing the larger muscle groups (legs, chest, back, etc.) combined with shorter rests or low activity phases.
The goal of HIIT is to fatigue the muscle group quickly without allowing enough time for the muscle to fully recover during the rest period. This will cause the 
muscle to lack oxygen and enter the anaerobic phase, essentially burning more calories. These exercises can be done with or without external weights, depending on your level of fitness.
A good example of a HIIT exercise program is Tabata, which entails doing an exercise, such as Mountain Climbers, at your highest intensity for 20 seconds then resting for 10 seconds and repeating 8 times for one set. One full set should equal exactly 4 minutes, which may sound easy…until you try it! Depending on how much time you have will determine how many “sets” to do. Only have 20 minutes to squeeze in a workout? Then go for 1 set of 4 different exercises, leaving 4 minutes for a cool down/stretch at the end (you WILL need it!).
Studies have shown that HIIT exercise is a great way to increase muscular strength as well as improve cardiovascular performance. This type of training can be a fun way to spice up a mundane workout schedule and will continuously challenge your muscles in new ways. So give it a try the next time you’re pressed for time but want to get it a quick, yet effective, calorie burner in…you’ll thank me!
Remember…go at your own pace, small progress IS progress just the same! Love yourself. Love your body and ALL that it does for you. YOU are beautiful!
Girly FLEX 