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Weight and HIIT training: a powerful fitness combo

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Betty Doyling, left, in a high-intensity interval training class with a client (Photograph supplied)

High-intensity interval training and weight training are two of the most effective forms of exercise for improving overall fitness and health.

HIIT is a type of exercise that involves alternating short bursts of high-intensity activity with periods of low-intensity rest or recovery.

Weight training is a type of exercise that involves using weights for resistance to build muscle strength and endurance.

HIIT

HIIT is a highly effective way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. HIIT should never replace weight training. However, HIIT can be added to your workout routine for variety.

It has been shown to be more effective at burning calories than traditional cardio exercises such as running or swimming. Studies have shown that HIIT is also a good way to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood-sugar levels.

Weight training

Weight training is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Muscle mass plays an important role in metabolism, strength, and endurance. It is also important for protecting your joints and bones. HIIT is great at burning calories during and slightly after a workout. However, strength training workouts have a long-term burn effect because the body has to spend more energy repairing itself in the days after a tough workout.

Betty Doyling, left, in a high-intensity interval training class with a client (Photograph supplied)

HIIT and weight training together

HIIT and weight training are both important for improving overall fitness and health. However, when combined, they can provide even greater benefits. Here are some of them:

Increased calorie burn

HIIT and weight training both burn calories but combining them can help you burn even more in a shorter amount of time.

Improved cardiovascular health

HIIT is a great way to improve cardiovascular health and weight training can also help by strengthening the heart.

Increased muscle mass

Weight training is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Ideally, weight training should take place at least twice per week for a healthy fitness routine.

Improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels

HIIT and weight training have both been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood-sugar levels.

Reduced risk of chronic diseases

HIIT and weight training have both been linked to a reduced risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer.

Betty Doyling, left, in a high-intensity interval training class with a client (Photograph supplied)

How to combine HIIT and weight training

There are many ways to combine HIIT and weight training. One common approach is to do a HIIT workout before or after a weight-training workout. For example, you could start with a ten-minute HIIT workout to warm up your body, then do a 30 to 40 minute weight-training workout.

Another approach is to combine HIIT and weight training in the same workout. For example, you could do a circuit workout that includes both HIIT exercises and weight training exercises.

No matter how you choose to combine HIIT and weight training, it is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. If you experience any pain, definitely discontinue the exercise and speak to your doctor.

If you are looking to improve your fitness and health, consider adding weight training and the occasional HIIT to your weekly workout routine.

Keep moving and B-Active For Life.

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook

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Published September 27, 2023 at 7:59 am (Updated September 27, 2023 at 7:17 am)

Weight and HIIT training: a powerful fitness combo

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