Are there benefits of adding high-intensity interval training to your exercise and weight-loss plan?

  • 2 Minutes Read
Brenda Braslow
Brenda Braslow, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)

What are the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for you? Find out how HIIT benefits weight loss and decide if it is for you.

High-intensity interval training benefits

High-intensity interval training benefits

Familiar with high-intensity interval training (HIIT)? Fitness centers have incorporated HIIT into their classes for many years. Fitness trainers use it when designing personalized fitness plans. In fact, if you work out, you may be applying some HIIT without even realizing it. It has become increasingly popular as a workout option. Read on to determine if it is a safe and effective fit for you.

High-intensity interval training benefits compared to moderate-intensity exercise

What is high-intensity interval training?

According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), HIIT is a type of training that "involves repeated bouts of high-intensity effort followed by varied recovery times."

High-intensity interval training basics

Applying high-intensity interval training for weight loss and fitness

Is HIIT exercise safe for diabetes?

HIIT exercise appeals to people with diabetes because vigorous exercise has superior heart-health benefits. On the other hand, you need to follow precautions wisely for intense workouts and ensure your safety. If you don't currently exercise, get a complete physical exam before starting any exercise program. If you have established diabetes and/or heart disease, ask your doctor if such strenuous exercise is safe for you. If your healthcare provider clears the way, start weaving high-intensity interval training into your fitness routine. You'll enjoy excellent benefits like enhanced weight loss, a healthier heart, and a stronger body.

With diabetes, additionally, tune in to how your blood sugar responds to higher-intensity exercise. HIIT requires careful planning, knowledge, and preparation to adjust your food intake and insulin delivery if you take insulin. Be prepared. Always carry a quick-acting glucose source (ex: glucose tablets or gels) to rescue low blood sugar.

How to track interval training

It can be pretty challenging to manually tally exercises in interval training. First, you need to calculate the actual time you are doing each type of exercise. For example, if you take a 60-minute class, record the minutes you perform both cardio and resistance exercises. Fitness devices offer the best solution for tracking interval workouts because they calculate calories expended based on measured heart rate in real time. MyNetDiary syncs with fitness trackers such as Fitbit, Garmin Connect, and Withings. Also, fitness devices such as Apple Health or Google Fit sync data directly into the MyNetDiary app, so you do not have to enter the information manually.

MyNetDiary, your energy level, and your favorite jeans can all show you the newfound benefits of high-intensity interval training.

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Diabetes->Health Exercise->Health
Mar 1, 2024

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