High intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of the most demanding types of workouts out there. It’s highly effective at helping one to shed the suborn fat and get insanely fit. However, because of its extreme nature, this style of training is not suitable for some people.
Below you’ll find a list of questions that you should ask yourself before you embark on HIIT. If your answer is no to any of the questions below, HIIT is not for you.
* Has your doctor cleared you?
It goes without saying that if you’re going to start on a new exercise regimen, it’s best to speak to your doctor about it. You may have certain medical conditions that make HIIT workouts hazardous to your health. Speak to your doctor first.
* Any existing/past injuries?
If you have injuries from the past or present that will get worse from hard training, HIIT is not for you. For example, if you have bad knees, sprinting repeatedly is only going to inflame your knees and put you out of commission the next day.
You need to know your body well. You can still lose weight and get fit without aggravating your health issues.
* Have you experienced chest pain?
This is a HUGE problem. If you have chest pain every now and then, HIIT is definitely not for you. The exertion and panting will wreak havoc on your breathing and cardiovascular system.
Someone without chest pain may only feel exhausted. However, someone with other conditions may feel breathless and even collapse. There have been people who have died due to excessive training.
* Do you have blood pressure problems or a heart condition?
Once again, having these 2 health issues will mean that HIIT is not suitable for you. This is especially true if you’re on medication to treat these conditions. While studies have shown that HIIT can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, the risks are too high to take a chance.
You’re better off with moderate intensity cardio and weight training. Nobody needs to force themselves to do HIIT to lose weight or get fit. You can easily achieve both goals with a sensible diet and training program.
People usually do HIIT to accelerate their progress and see results faster. But if your health conditions prevent you from adopting this protocol, you’re not lost. You still have options that will take you to your goals.
They may take longer, but you’ll be safe… and you’ll reach your destination.
* Do you have dizziness, balance problems, etc.?
If you suffer from vertigo or you’ve been known to get dizzy or even faint occasionally, HIIT is not for you. High intensity training requires you to be fast, fit and coordinated.
Balance and full alertness are expected. The goal is maximum effort. Most HIIT athletes don’t even need to give dizziness and balance issues a second thought. They’re focused on expending all their effort on doing the most reps as they can.
If you’re worried about getting dizzy, or if hard workouts make you feel light headed, you’re better off with cardio that’s moderate and manageable.
Finally, if you know of any other reasons why HIIT is not a good fit for you, trust your instincts and avoid it. HIIT is great for many people, but it’s dangerous to some. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.
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