HIIT at the Gym and on an EFX
So, today I began what could be the next chapter in HIIT training. I attempted to do it on an EFX machine at the gym. My results are mixed, but not due to a problem with the machine. To start with, it was the first time I’ve tried an EFX machine. The controls were pretty standard, but I needed to play with a few settings to get what I was looking for.
I had it set to about 70% of max incline and did a couple of minutes of warm up to get my legs used to the motion. As for the actual sprinting part, I ended up staying at that incline and pushing the level all the way up to 20, which was the max, then I just leaned forward and went as hard as I could. The nice thing was there was a very clear and easy to read timer counting down the seconds in front of me. The bad thing was when I finished my 30 second interval, there was no easy way to lower the level without keeping the pedals moving. All I really wanted was to stop, but I had to keep moving to lower the level. I’m sure I’ll figure it out more as I go. The other negative was the extremely loud breathing and gasping for air. I was a little embarrassed despite the fact that there was probably 1 other person within 30 feet of me. I also imagine I’ll get over that.
In the end, I feel like I got an incredible interval workout in and I did without any pounding of my legs at all, which means my shins feel fantastic. That’s great news. It’s also something I think can be sustainable. Although today, I’m absolutely exhausted. I only did 6 intervals, 30 seconds with 1 minute rests. After which I weighed 233lbs. Not a good weight for someone who’s been doing this for a few months, but I’ve not really been eating as well as I should, and honestly only doing HIIT about 2 times a week.
Related Posts
- No related posts
Feb 21st 2008
hi how long should hiit last on a bike?
May 10th 2008
I use to be just like that. I talked to this personal trainer one day and he said the best way to stay motivated is to make a journal of exactly what you do every single day. Honestly it really work when I looked at it on paper it was different. When you see no improvement on paper in terms of reps, sets, and distance and haven’t done anything you feel like a lazy asshole that day then get motivated to get on them running shoes and pull out the wieghts.
Aug 14th 2008
Hi, I did a google on HIIT as I want to add it to my routine. Like you, I hated running. Notice the past tense. I now like running because I’m now on a hormonally balanced diet called the Zone Diet. You can google it for more information, but it is a moderate, balanced diet that yields amazing results. Joslin Diabetes Centers recommends a diet that is almost identical. Dr. Sears, the creator, has worked with athletes that have brought home 24 gold medals. Jenny Thompson was the most prolific Zoner medalist and her count was just surpassed by Michael Phelps a day or two ago.
Christian Vande Velde is a Zoner - he recently finished 5th in the Tour de France.
I’d also recommend spending some google time on “pose running.” It has helped me a lot, but takes some time to get your calf muscle strong enough to support the work load.
I’m a decade your senior and I feel better than ever - and I mean this factually. I really really do feel better than ever. I effortlessly lost 25+ lbs of fat while adding ~70 lbs to my bench press - I started pretty weak.
My foundation is the Zone Diet, pose running is a great tool and I hope to add HIIT as another tool in my arsenal.
Best of luck in your exercise adventures.