We all know that working out is good for us. From losing weight to building muscle and increasing energy levels, there is no doubt that getting active makes a positive difference to our physical and mental wellbeing.
Did you know that one particular exercise is head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to helping us hold back the years? Research published by the Mayo Clinic has revealed that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is better than any other form of exercise when it comes to delaying the ageing process.
The science behind HIIT
Researchers found that HIIT changes the DNA in our cells to boost the amount of energy our muscles produce. It can also encourage the growth of new muscle, which is something that is commonly lost as we begin to age.
In studies conducted on people over the age of 65, deterioration of muscle cells had actually been reversed. This is an impressive result, showing that it is never too late to start making those gains!
The tests compared two groups aged between 18-30 and 65-80 who were following strength training and HIIT programmes. Whilst those following a strength training programme saw a growth in their overall muscle mass, the HIIT group experienced greater improvement at a cellular level. This improvement was even more remarkable amongst older participants, who also benefitted from improved heart and lung functions and insulin levels.
What exactly is HIIT?
Popular in many state-of-the-art fitness centres and Derbyshire gyms, high-intensity interval training is designed to raise your heart rate over short periods of intense exercise, interspersed with short rest breaks or other less-intense activity. An entire session will often last no longer than 30 minutes; however, done correctly, it will leave you feeling like you have completed a much longer workout. This is perfect if you are pushed for time.
Suitable for everyone
You should always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise regime. Once you have the all-clear, it is worth speaking to the fitness experts at gyms such as http://shredzfitnesscentre.com/ who can help you to put together the most suitable programme to meet your fitness goals.
You don’t need to be super-fit to take up HIIT, as simply increasing the intensity of your walking is enough to start seeing the benefit. What are you waiting for?
