The Power of High Intensity Interval Training - Words of Wisdom

The power of High Intensity Interval Training. HIIT  8 seconds fast 12 seconds slow

During our class we do 8 seconds fast, 12 seconds slow.  However, in some exercise programs, the high intensity phase can go for up to 30 seconds – which feels like eternity.

Remember a calorie* is a unit of energy, so the calories we take in, as food, is the energy we burn….by the way, when a food is advertised High in Energy...It is high in calories.

The way our body uses energy is complex.  It follows a strict molecular pathway, like a flow chart.  Of course, we are constantly using energy – even sitting still or sleeping. Every blink of the eye, every breath you take.

The Aerobic side of the equation… from our regular living up to a brisk walk.

When we exercise more fuel is required.  In the presence of oxygen, glucose is the fuel – the first fuel at our disposal is glucose.  At first 2 units of energy are quickly made accessible. Then there is a slower event where the pathway make 36 units of energy.

However, when we may take in more calories than we burn, these extra units of energy are stored as glycogen in the muscles and the liver.  The liver can convert this to fat, if it is not needed

The Anaerobic equation - High intensity

During our high-intensity phase -8 seconds fast -the body uses the stored glycogen for energy.

Keep going with HIIT through to the second cycle of high intensity - 8 seconds fast,again and third cycle and fourth etc

As the body runs out of fuel, first glucose is gone then stored glycogen is used up. The pituitary gland comes to the rescue and releases Human Growth Hormone. (yes even though we have stopped growing)

Human Growth Hormone does amazing things

          It activates Hormone sensitive lipase – the body start burning fat.

          Diverts blood to the skin

          Optimizes the use of the protein

          Effects can last 24 hours

          Mitochondria – the power house of the cell.

HIIT improves the number and quality of the cell’s mitochondria.

It is the fountain of Youth

* Yes I know the term "calories" is the old money - It should be kilojoules.  I know