The high intensity training revolution
- By Jack Preston -
- Jan 31, 2013
In the wake of statistics claiming that 35% of adults only have time for exercise one hour each week, Virgin Active are encouraging members to take up their ‘HIIT’ workouts.
The High Intensity Interval Training initiative has recently been boosted by the addition of Fast Classes (20 minute instructor-led intensive sessions on the gym floor), as well as 30 minute Puma Faas classes which utilise plyometrics, a type of exercise training designed to produce fast, powerful movements and comprises a series of exercise drills focusing on speed, agility and quickness.
“Traditionally group exercise classes last between 45-60 minutes but this class fits into people’s busy schedules while providing them with a high intensity workout. The Puma Fass Class helps to maximise fat and calorie burning as participants are put through their paces, like an athlete,” commented Gillian Reeves, National Group Exercise Manager at Virgin Active.
Government guidelines now state that the total recommended exercise time (of moderate activity) is 150 minutes per week, which can be built up in smaller blocks of 10 minutes or more. Something which Reeves believes is perfectly catered for in Virgin Active’s new classes.
“These new guidelines align with our Fast Classes perfectly, which are popular with members who enjoy coming to the club but are looking for an effective whole body workout in a short space of time, before picking the children up from school, meeting friends for a drink or rushing back to work from lunch.”
To find out where your nearest health club is, head over to the Virgin Active website.
By Jack Preston. Content Executive. Tweets at @JackPressedOn
