Getting back to HIIT

In the whirlwind of the past few years, my once fiery engagement with High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) simmered down to embers. The toll? It's etched not just in the mirror but echoes in the recesses of my mind. Ample research, including a study from the 'Journal of Obesity' (2011), underscores the profound impact of HIIT on mental health – a beacon I had somehow let flicker out. As a fitness trainer who preaches General Physical Preparedness, it's ironic how I find myself in the trenches of motivation, struggling to architect and adhere to my training blueprints.

But here's the kicker: when I swap the trainer's hat for my own training gear, the HIIT sessions transform. I'm no longer just a coach; I'm my own trainee, and the dynamics shift intriguingly.

Now, striding into my 40s with a backpack of persistent injuries, the puzzle is how to sustain an intense workout regimen without playing dice with my health. Crafting these workouts is akin to a mental marathon, and frankly, I'm still lacing up my shoes.

A throwback to my military days flickered to life a few days back. The legendary 300 workout – a brainchild from Gym Jones in Salt Lake City for the cast of "300" – resurfaced in my thoughts. This routine, over a decade old, is a testament to quick, intense sessions that don't rely heavily on weights. It's more than a workout; it's a historical nod to fitness ingenuity.

Here's the 300 Workout that I tailored for myself, keeping it under 135 lbs to respect my body's boundaries:

1. 25 Pull-Ups

2. 50 Deadlifts with 135 lbs

3. 50 Push-Ups

4. 50 Box Jumps on a 24-inch box

5. 50 Floor Wipers at 135 lbs

6. 50 Single Arm KB Clean & Press with a 36 lb KB (I opted for a 44 lb Snatch)

7. 25 Pull-Ups

This HIIT session was nothing short of a revitalizing journey, clocking in at an estimated 40 minutes (thanks to my trusty watch, since I completely spaced out on setting a timer).

What this experience illuminated was the intersection of mental agility and physical stamina. It’s not just about lifting weights; it’s about lifting spirits. As I continue to navigate my fitness journey, particularly through the lens of someone who’s not just guiding others but also themselves, the learning never stops. And neither does the journey.

In my upcoming posts, I’ll dive deeper into the nuances of HIIT for different age groups and how to tailor your workout to your life’s demands. Stay tuned for a blend of fitness wisdom, personal anecdotes, and practical tips to keep your body and mind in prime condition, no matter your age or stage in life.