Video: 7 reasons to try interval training

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been getting a lot of attention recently. The idea: You can go harder for a short spurt, such as 30 seconds, than you can for a whole workout. And as long as you take a minute to catch your breath, you can do it again. And again.

The result of all those cycles of work hard, rest and repeat: a fun, boredom-proof workout that can actually give you bigger fitness gains in less time. Really.

Sound intimidating? It doesn't have to be. See what the experts from Mayo Clinic have to say about interval training at any fitness level.

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  2. Jung M, et al. Where does HIT fit? An examination of the affective response to high-intensity intervals in comparison to continuous moderate- and continuous vigorous-intensity exercise in the exercise intensity- affect continuum. PLOS One 2014;9:e114541.
  3. Cassidy S, et al. High-intensity interval training: A review of its impact on glucose control and cardiometabolic health. Diabetelogia. 2017;60:7.
  4. Liou K, et al. High intensity interval versus moderate intensity continuous training in patients with coronary artery disease: A meta-analysis of physiological and clinical parameters. Heart, Lung and Circulation. 2016;25:166.
  5. Little JP, et al. A practical model of low-volume high-intensity interval training induces mitochondrial biogenesis in human skeletal muscle: potential mechanisms. The Journal of Physiology. 2010;588.6:1011.
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