Research shows effectiveness of High Intensity Interval Cycling in improving participant fitness

Newly published research has boosted Les Mills’ newly launched SPRINT™ high intensity group cycling program, concluding that adding high intensity interval cycling to the routine of trained adults improved physical fitness. 

Published in the latest Journal of Fitness Research, the result sof the study led by Dr Jinger Gottschall at Penn State University in the USA suggest that replacing one bout of moderate intensity exercise with two 30-minute bouts of cycling HIIT is an effective, low impact option to improve cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal fitness, as well as body composition.

SPRINT™ is a short, intense workout which sees participants do quick bursts of cycling followed by short periods of recovery. Undertaken on a stationary bike, with no complex moves it’s low impact, making it perfect for anyone who looking to enhance their fitness activity.

Dr Gottschall’s research tracked the fitness progress of two groups of adults, aged 26-60. One group maintained a regular schedule of 60-minute classes. The other switched out one 60-minute class for two 30-minute high intensity group cycling classes.

Dr Gottschall explains “the results were astonishing.

“The group doing LES MILLS SPRINT showed significantly better results in many areas. HIIT training gave participants much better results in fitness, strength and body fat. Blood pressure and cholesterol results were also surprisingly strong.”

Bryce Hastings, Head of Research at Les Mills, knew SPRINT™ was effective, but he was surprised by the big differences in fitness results.

Hastings explained “we’ve known that short HIIT classes give exercisers great results, but having the numbers to back this up was a real eye-opener. The time spent working out is the same, but we’re getting better results.”

He also notes how short HIIT sessions work for busy people with a lot on their plate, adding “lots of exercisers tell us that switching to two LES MILLS SPRINT classes is much easier on their schedules

“They can jump on a bike in their lunch break and smash out an intense workout that’s gentle on their joints. What’s more, the research shows that the shorter HIIT workouts actually lead to even better fitness results.”

Click here to view the full study, titled High Intensity Interval Cycling Improves Physical Fitness In Trained Adults.

Click here to contact Les Mills Asia Pacific via their entry in the Australasian Leisure Management Supplier Directory.

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