What is high-intensity interval training (HIIT)?

What is high-intensity interval training (HIIT)?

• A. A combination of high-intensity aerobic and muscular fitness activities performed in short bouts followed by a short rest period.
• B. A long-duration, low-intensity cardio session.
• C. A strength-training program focusing on slow, controlled lifts.
• D. A flexibility routine performed after moderate cardio.

Answer: (A)

High-intensity interval training is about alternating short bursts of very hard effort with brief recovery periods. The work intervals push you near your maximum capacity, then you back off to recover a bit before repeating. This pattern makes workouts time-efficient while producing strong cardio and metabolic benefits. For example, you might sprint for 20–30 seconds and then recover for 20–40 seconds, repeating several times. This contrasts with steady, long-duration, low-intensity cardio, slow, controlled lifts, or a post-cardio flexibility routine, none of which use the high-intensity bouts and short rests that define HIIT.

High-intensity interval training is about alternating short bursts of very hard effort with brief recovery periods. The work intervals push you near your maximum capacity, then you back off to recover a bit before repeating. This pattern makes workouts time-efficient while producing strong cardio and metabolic benefits. For example, you might sprint for 20–30 seconds and then recover for 20–40 seconds, repeating several times. This contrasts with steady, long-duration, low-intensity cardio, slow, controlled lifts, or a post-cardio flexibility routine, none of which use the high-intensity bouts and short rests that define HIIT.