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

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

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

However, some cheap exercise bikes offer basic preset programs, which are useful for users who want to change up their cardio routine or want to follow a specific type of cardio program, such as high-intensity interval training. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2025

Lastly, movement is also reimagined — from high-intensity sprint clinics to high-intensity interval training collaborations, to functional pilates and treks. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 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