High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can help you age well – regular 6-minute sessions produce a fresh source of brain fuel to stave off dementia, study suggests
- The benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are well known – it amps up oxygen and blood flow for increased cardio capacity, builds muscle and more
- New research shows HIIT may also boost production of a protein essential for brain formation, learning and memory, which may protect it against ageing
HIIT – or high-intensity interval training – is a potent option to increase endurance and strength in those who have limited time to exercise. It may also provide a source of fuel for your brain to help it age well, new research suggests.
HIIT involves doing several rounds of the same exercise designed to elevate the heart rate to at least 80 per cent of its maximum. Think of it as short, fast sprints separated by lower-intensity exercise.
It has become popular recently, with classes popping up everywhere – but it’s been around in different forms for decades.
In the 1920s the legendary “Flying Finn”, Olympian runner Paavo Nurmi, was among the first to practise “interval training” – and went on to win nine Olympic gold medals and three silvers, and break 22 world records.
A perfect HIIT session should be “short, sweet and effective”, says Trang Do, the general manager at F45 Training in Tsim Sha Tsui and Whampoa, Hong Kong.