high-intensity interval training

noun

: a form of interval training that alternates very brief periods (such as 20 to 40 seconds) of intense exercise at maximum effort with periods (such as 15 to 30 seconds) of less intense exercise
High-intensity interval training has massive benefits, but it can be daunting (hence the intense).Cosmopolitan
… scientific studies have shown that exercising exclusively in the anaerobic zones (high-intensity interval training) is the best way to decrease body fat and increase muscle mass.The Billings (Montana) Gazette

called also HIIT

Examples of high-intensity interval training in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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What really helps the brain is exercise, especially high-intensity interval training. Renée Onque, CNBC, 22 Aug. 2026 As for fitness features, the Pixel Watch 5 will offer more detailed guidance on strength and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 13 Aug. 2026 In one study, researchers examined whether 12 weeks of high-intensity interval training could protect blood vessel function in the legs after prolonged sitting. Jakob Roze, Health, 23 July 2026 Any form of exercise is better than none, and the types that burn the most calories include cardiovascular activities like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), swimming, running, and biking. Sara Hoffman, Verywell Health, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for high-intensity interval training

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-intensity interval training was in 1984

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Cite this Entry

“High-intensity interval training.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-intensity%20interval%20training. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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