High intensity interval training (HIIT) is an exercise technique that involves intense bursts of high-intensity movements followed by varied periods of low-intensity or low-impact active rest or even complete rest. HIIT workouts are great options for people short on time, as they do not generally take more than 20 minutes. This type of training has the potential to burn maximum calories in a minimum amount of time, making it a great option for weight loss or to boost metabolism.
Sequence: Repeat this workout in sequence 3 times
Target muscle groups: upper back, shoulders, chest, buttocks, abdominals, hamstrings, calves
Total workout time: 30 minutes
Reps: 15
Standing shoulder width apart, bend your upper body to a 45-degree angle. With a dumbbell (no less than 5 pounds) in each hand, lift both arms to shoulder height. Briefly hold and return both arms to the front of your body. Repeat 15 times.
Challenge: Increase the weight of your dumbbells.
Rest: 1 minute
Lay with your back on the ground and preform slow movement abdominal crunches for 1 minute.
Reps: 15
Laying on your back, place a dumbbell (no less than 5 pounds) in each hand. Start by straightening your arms above your body and slowly pulling your arms apart so that the back of your arms touches the ground. Repeat 15 times.
Challenge: Increase the weight of your dumbbells.
Rest:1 Minute
This is an inactive rest.
Reps: 10
Standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and hands at your chest, slowly bend your knees to a 90-degree angle. Slightly pause and jump into the air, softly landing with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Lower your body back into the squatting position to complete the rep.
Challenge: Add ankle weights to create more challenging jumps.
Rest: 2 minutes
Perform lunges for a full 2 minutes.
Reps: 10 per leg
Lying on your back, slowly lift one leg straight in the air and hold your hips for five seconds until you feel a slight pulling or stretch in your hips and hamstrings. Release and lay back down. Repeat 10 times per leg.
Challenge: Increase the holding time.
Rest: 1 minute
Perform a plank for 1 minute.
Reps: 30
From a normal standing position, take a giant step out to the right. As you do, sweep your left leg behind you while bringing your left arm across your body. Quickly step left, bringing your right arm behind you and your right arm across your body. Quickly build up speed alternating sides.
Challenge: Increase the quickness of your movements.
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