The American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) annual survey of fitness professionals worldwide recently named High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) as the top fitness trend of 2014. For the past seven years, “educated and experienced fitness professionals” was number one on the list, so this new selection represents a clear shift in thinking. HIIT, a cardiovascular training approach which involves short bursts of activity followed by short periods of rest or recovery, is increasingly considered a more effective and efficient form of cardio training than long hours spent on the treadmill or elliptical. This approach seems to provide maximum results with less time spent in the gym, which is the model of Koko FitClub’s Smartraining methodology, developed by Chief Fitness Officer Michael Wood and offered in Koko clubs around the country, four here in Fairfield County. 

 

“High Intensity Interval Training made its first appearance on this list this year. Its appearance in the top spot on the list reflects how this form of exercise has taken the fitness community by storm in recent months,” said Walter R. Thompson, PhD, FACSM, the lead author of the survey, in an article by Club Industry magazine. This rise in popularity among fitness professionals may be attributed in part to the rapid success of the Koko FitClub-patented Smartraining approach, which emphasizes time-sensitive, personalized workouts. 

 

“People are finally aware that when it comes to exercise, quality is better than quantity. HIIT is super-efficient, and the perfect fat-burning workout for anyone with weight loss goals and a busy schedule. We use this methodology at Koko FitClub to create a variety of powerful 15-minute treadmill and elliptical cardio programs that provide twice the calorie burn of traditional cardio – no running required,” Wood says in his online blog, The Stronger Blog.

 

Research indicates only 15 minutes of interval training just 3-4 times a week results in better outcomes than jogging on a treadmill for an hour. According to a 2011 study presented at the ACSM Annual Meeting, only 2 weeks of high-intensity interval training improves aerobic capacity to the level of 6 to 8 weeks of endurance training.

 

HIIT works for almost everyone, regardless of ability, as workout intensity level can be adjusted from moderate to advanced. It is performed on either a treadmill or an elliptical machine. Wood coaches Koko FitClub members via pre-recorded audio files as they move through their chosen cardio routines, ensuring proper form and keeping individuals motivated while they’re burning fat. Koko FitClub Smartraining includes guided 30 minute full body strength workouts which leverage technological advances to maximize efficiency. This makes it easy for people to work out when they want, and keeps people engaged by adjusting workouts and providing continual feedback as they progress. The intention is to address barriers that stand between people and creation of the long-term healthy changes which will make crucial difference in their bodies and lives.

 

Natasha Michaels is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings Fairfield County.

 

Koko FitClub of Westport Location • 619 Post Rd. East, Westport, CT • For more information, Visit Westport.KokoFitClub.com or call 203-557-3994.

Koko FitClub of Ridgefield Location • 88 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield, CT • For more information, visit Ridgefield.KokoFitClub.com or call 203-894-5055. 

 

See ad, page 55.