High-intensity interval training, aka HIIT, or combining intense workout efforts with brief periods of recovery, boasts loads of benefits. Evidence shows it makes a good replacement for traditional aerobic workout methods – intense intervals are said to be as good as longer-duration, moderate cardio for boosting VO2 max energy efficiency – plus, it’s been found to raise resting metabolic rate (RMR), so bodies continue to burn calories for at least two hours after exercise.
But high-impact HIIT (think, weighted box jumps, sprinting, plyometric push-ups) can be hard on the body. High-impact moves put a lot of stress on joints and, done too often or without a good foundation of fitness, can lead to a risk of joint or muscle injury. Muscles have to contract
