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Angie Krueger

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December 14, 2024

HIIT is Junk Volume

HIIT is __________.

Any consistent training can keep you in shape, but purpose driven training can get you into peak shape, with the same effort. 

Oftentimes progressive overload programs, designed to build muscle, are pretty vanilla. Which is why HIIT workouts have dominated the group fitness industry for years. They’re fun! Intervals allow us to work really hard, reset, and repeat for a killer calorie burning workout. While HIIT training is most effective for improving cardiovascular fitness, it is quite possibly the worst form of exercise for long term day-to-day exercise. To explain this, I’m going to give you two examples. 

The Problem with Overtraining in HIIT

Olivia is 32-years old, she has been exercising on her own 3x a week consistently for years but wants to lose 10-lbs. She joins a HIIT gym and commits to going 4x a week. After six weeks she doesn’t feel as out of breath and she feels more comfortable picking up some heavier weights. Her body composition scan shows that she has lost both fat and muscle. Despite her consistency Olivia’s weight loss has plateaued, she is still feeling fatigued after every workout, and is now worried about her back pain acting up after every session. It is becoming difficult for Olivia to stay motivated, when she feels so worn down after each workout without the continued results.

Why It’s Not Working

Olivia’s problem is overtraining. By increasing her workload without sufficient recovery, she’s creating “junk volume” that diminishes her performance and increases her risk of injury. Without prioritizing recovery, Olivia’s efforts become counterproductive.

The Power of Progressive Overload

Penelope has been exercising on her own 3x a week consistently for years but wants to improve her body composition. She signs up for a small group strength training program, where she has committed to lifting 3-4x a week with the group. After 8 weeks, Penelope has successfully lost weight and built muscle. She’s lifting heavier and injury free with guidance from her coaches to make the most of her recovery days.

What’s working here?

Penelope has a training program that utilizes progressive overload. Her sessions are challenging, but she is encouraged to show up recovered. By prioritizing muscle gain, she feels stronger and motivated to keep going. She spends less time in the gym than anticipated, and has found more ways to enjoy her cardiovascular exercise.

Motivate Mentality

Gone are the days of glorifying junk volume training. Strength training exercises done in short intervals, simply does not allow for optimal muscle recovery. If you want sustainable results, you need a program with effective volume. 

At Motivate Fitness, we make training blocks fun and purposeful. Our focus is on building strength with functional, athletic movements that keep workouts engaging. Plus, every session incorporates cardio without sabotaging your muscle development.

Ready for Results?

If you’re ready to ditch ineffective workouts and embrace a program designed for sustainable strength and health, come experience the Motivate difference. Visit motivateboise.com to learn more or sign up for a free 10-day trial today!

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