Why I love HIIT workouts!

HIIT workouts can be for anyone!

HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training and it is often framed as a very challenging form of movement. I am not going to lie, it can be. Frequently, HIIT classes pump up the cardio by including short bursts of powerful moves followed by short periods of rest. For people like me who do not enjoy a ton of steady state cardio, think running or biking, HIIT can be great. It is a way to improve your cardiovascular endurance in a short amount of time...and it makes me feel like a badass.

Most HIIT classes feel inaccessible to folks because they do not come with a lot of variation. Jumping jacks, jump squats, burpees, and mountain climbers are all moves that are often used in HIIT classes. And while I love a lot of them, they tend to scare away folks who have had less than positive experiences or just don’t feel comfortable jumping.

In my HIIT classes, jumping is always optional! You can absolutely get your heart rate up without the high impact of a jump. High intensity does not need to be high impact! I teach my class in a tabata style. That means moves are performed for 20 seconds and there is a 10 second rest period in between. The class moves fast AND listening to your body is always encouraged. 


Squats, planks, and knee marches all come with so many perfectly good modifications. We can be in the same class, do very different moves, and all get a really good workout!

Three reasons I love HIIT: 

  1. The workouts can be completed in a short amount of time. You get a great workout in less time!

  2. There is not a ton of equipment required. Really just a mat, some space, and for some of us, a really good sports bra

  3. There is a lot of variety in the moves. This means, you can add modifications and variations to make things more interesting.

If you are interested in trying out a HIIT class in a judgement free environment, you are in the right place. This class requires no equipment, although yoga mats are encouraged for floor work. There will be times where getting up and down from the floor is suggested, but again, everything is modifiable.

Book your spot for my upcoming Open HIIT class and let’s get moving! 

Lauren Leavell