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

Killen recommended at least one to two sessions of high-intensity interval training per week, specifically incorporating sprinting on a bike, rower, or up a hill while running. — Stephanie Anderson Witmer, Health, 9 Feb. 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

Fitness classes include beach spin, yoga, high-intensity interval training, lap swims, pilates, power beach walks, aerial silks, and dynamic movement. — Patricia Doherty, Travel + Leisure, 5 Jan. 2026

And a 2020 study found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (not moderate-intensity continuous training or resistance training) improved older adults’ cognitive flexibility, or ability to quickly switch between mental tasks. — Erica Sloan, SELF, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for high-intensity interval training

• abstaining
• attaining
• campaigning
• complaining
• constraining
• containing
• detaining
• disdaining
• entraining
• explaining
• maintaining
• obtaining