Exercise and fitness: Dos and don’ts of HIIT workouts

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Dos and don’ts of HIIT workouts

Moneycontrol News, August 11, 2023

Images: Canva

Warm up thoroughly: A proper warm up is crucial before diving into a HIIT session. Engage in dynamic stretches, light cardio, and mobility drills to prepare your muscles and joints for the upcoming intensity

Start slowly: If you’re new to HIIT, start with a beginner’s routine. Gradually increase the intensity and duration as your fitness level improves. Overexerting yourself right from the start can lead to injuries

Mix up exercises: Incorporate a variety  of exercises to target different muscle  groups and prevent overuse injuries.  This diversity also keeps your workouts engaging and challenging

Maintain proper form: Performing exercises with correct form is crucial to prevent injuries and ensure you are targeting the right muscles. If you are unsure, seek guidance from a certified fitness trainer

Stay hydrated: HIIT can be incredibly demanding, leading to increased sweating and fluid loss. Remember to drink water before, during, and after your workout to stay adequately hydrated

Include rest days: Rest days are just as important as workout days. Your muscles need time to recover and repair, reducing the risk of burnouts and injuries. Aim for at least one or two days of rest per week

Don’t overdo it: Pushing yourself to the limit is one thing, but overexertion can lead to injuries and burnout. Listen to your body and know when to scale back or take a break

Don’t forget cool-down sessions: Just as a warm up is essential, cooling down is equally important. Engage in static stretches and low-intensity movements to gradually lower your heart rate and reduce muscle tension

Don’t skip the rest intervals: Rest intervals are not breaks; they’re part of the workout. Skipping or shortening these intervals can lead to excessive fatigue and compromise the quality of your workout

Don’t depend only on HIIT: While HIIT is effective, it shouldn’t be your only form of exercise. Include strength training, flexibility exercises, and low-impact activities in your routine to maintain a healthy fitness regimen

Don’t disregard nutrition: You can’t out-exercise a poor diet. Eating a balanced diet that supports your energy needs and provides essential nutrients is crucial for maximizing the benefits of HIIT

Don’t ignore warning signs: Pay attention to any warning signs your body gives during a workout, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or severe discomfort. Pushing through these signs can lead to serious health issues

Don’t compare yourself: Fitness journeys  are personal, and progress varies from person to person. Avoid comparing your progress to that of others, as it can lead to frustration and discouragement

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