High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Type 2 Diabetes

 What is HIIT? Is it safe? Can it help my Diabetes? Is it better than moderate-intensity exercise? 

These are just a few of the questions I am asked when discussing HIIT with clients.

What is HIIT?

High-intensity exercise is the type of exercise that gets you breathing heavy and your heart beating fast. HIIT is comprised of short blocks of high-intensity exercise separated by brief periods of active recovery or rest.

Is it safe?

Research indicates HIIT is safe for people living with diabetes, however safety of HIIT should be determined on an individual basis in collaboration with your exercise physiologist and doctor. Your health professionals will consider pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors, medical history, exercise history and the environment in which you would be completing HIIT.

What’s all the fuss about? What are the benefits of HIIT?

There are several amazing benefits including improved HbA1c, blood pressure, insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels, increased cardiorespiratory fitness, and reduced muscle/joint pain. These benefits contribute to an overall reduced risk of cardiovascular events (incidents that may damage the heart) and diabetes related complications.

Is HIIT better than moderate-intensity exercise?

Benefits vary depending on what you read, but one thing is consistent across the board and that is HIIT is equally as effective and in many cases superior to moderate-intensity exercise.

Still not convinced?

Did you know that lack of time is the most reported reason for not participating in regular exercise? This is where HIIT flexes its muscles. Recent research has demonstrated that as little as 4-minutes of high-intensity exercise three times a week can elicit similar benefits compared to five 30-minute moderate-intensity exercise sessions per week. Have I convinced you? Remember to always seek advice from your exercise physiologist and doctor before commencing HIIT.