High-intensity interval training [HIIT] is a bit of a rage now but has always been an integral part of the training regime of serious athletes.

It has some terrific benefits, but the best is that it works for anyone — not just the serious athlete. Even if you are re-discovering fitness, HIIT is something you can incorporate fairly quickly into your program. Just start out slowly and ramp up the intensity level as your level of fitness increases.

HIIT describes any workout that alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or even complete rest. For example, I’m doing this two or three times a week on an elliptical now:

• 5 minute warm-up at moderate pace
• 30 seconds at all-out speed followed by 90 seconds at slow pace
• Repeat seven more times
• 3 minutes cool down

I can tell you that this 24-minute workout is tough, refreshing, and really works for improving your fitness level. The beauty of it is:

• It’s fast and efficient — you can do it in 15 minutes three times per week and see great results. You can do it at home and don’t need equipment — jumping jacks, deep knee bends — any motion like this with intensity will work.
• It’s a great fat-burner.
• Your heart benefits big-time — going anaerobic like this does is excellent for the ticker.
• You burn calories and build muscle at the same time.
• It increases your metabolism by stimulating the production of human growth hormone [HGH].

Give it a try.  I guarantee it’ll be a HIIT!