I’ve done high intensity interval training (HIIT) before, but Wednesday was the first day I tried Tabata intervals.
I just want to say I understand why they are so effective – the experience was pretty intensive! 🙂
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Tabata intervals are named after the Japanese researcher Izumi Tabata who first used the protocol. In the Tabata protocol, you first exercise for 20 seconds at high intensity level (8/9 out of 10), followed by 10 seconds of low intensity exercise (4/10). This cycle is repeated 8 times without rest, so that the whole workout takes only 4 minutes.
The chosen exercise can be almost anything: running, jump roping, jumping jacks, burpees but also laying down cycles or donkey kicks will do.
High intensity interval training is the most effective way to improve aerobic (and anaerobic) fitness, and it’s presumably the most effective way to burn body fat. [Read more…]