I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a tough one… We have been thrown out of our normal routines and forced into new ones. It has impacted every aspect of our life: our work schedule, social life and our workout routines. In a year of so much change, unknown and isolation, ways to maintain mental health has been a topic now more than ever. It’s a known fact that staying active will not only help you stay physically healthy but also mentally, but do you know why? What about ways to maintain mental health through HIIT workouts?
When you work out not only does it release serotonin to your brain while you’re moving but continues to do so after too. Following a 30 minute session of a HIIT workout, moods have been proven to continue to improve for up to 90 minutes after! Even more recent studies are showing that a regular HIIT exercise regimen is more effective at relieving stress & anxiety, especially in women.
What is HIIT and why is it so beneficial?
HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training. Great, so what does that mean? Basically it’s an exercise strategy that alternates short periods of intense anaerobic exercise with less intense recovery periods. This workout style is intended to improve cardiovascular health. Not only is it the easiest way to get the most out of a workout if you have limited time… It will also benefit you most post workout by driving your body into a hyperactive recovery state. The best part? You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or have an at home gym! All you need is a screen, your own body weight and our at home workout program, Virtual Grit. Simply select a workout and press play to start reaping the benefits of HIIT anytime or anywhere you need some stress relief.
One of our at home, HIIT, Virtual Grit Workouts that can be done with or without a bag using shadowboxing.
HIIT’s Effects on Neuroplasticty
HIIT’s positive effects on preventing brain atrophy is a big part of our kickboxing programs at Grit Box. Even more so as to why it is an integral part of our Rock Steady Boxing Program. Rock Steady is our boxing focused program for people fighting Parkinson’s disease. Exercise increases the brain’s volume of gray matter (actual neurons) & white matter (connections between neurons). By increasing the blood flow to your brain you are triggering biochemical changes that spur neuroplasticity. The production of new connections between neurons & even of neurons themselves. Neuroplasticity is key in furthering to improve your mental health over the years.
So by adding a workout like kickboxing to your exercise routine not only will you improve your physical health but also maintain your mental health through HIIT style workouts.