The Anti-aging Power Of High Intensity Interval Training

India’s aging population is increasing, with the country on course to have 34 crore people aged over 60 by 2050. This could put more pressure on health services, with older people more prone to illness and needing care. However, this does not have to be the case. Looking after your joints as you age will help keep you mobile and independent. Meanwhile, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to be particularly effective at keeping you healthy and youthful, making it a very worthwhile form of exercise for all, but particularly for seniors.

What are the health benefits of HIIT?

HIIT consists of doing repeated bursts of high-intensity exercise, with short breaks in between. Not only does HIIT represent an affordable way to exercise in later life, but it is jam-packed with health benefits. One of these is its overall conditioning of the body, due to the variation of exercises involved. For instance, a HIIT workout might consist of a series of short, intense ‘rounds’ on a bike, followed by on-the-spot sprints, followed by weight training. Different parts of the body are being worked hard. What’s more, research shows that a HIIT workout can provide the same health benefits as a longer workout of moderate intensity.

How does HIIT keep us young?

Hiit has emerged as one of the most effective ways of slowing down the aging process. This is due to its effect on mitochondria in our bodies, which are responsible for producing energy. Studies have shown that regularly practicing HIIT prompts mitochondrial cells in the body to produce 69% more energy in adults between 65 and 80. This, in turn, can boost lung capacity and cardiovascular health, as well as maintaining a strong immune system. All this means less risk of developing or struggling to fend off illnesses and infections. When comparing results of seniors partaking in regular HIIT activity to those of younger counterparts, the benefits were most noticeable in the seniors; the age gap was not reflected in their results, showing how HIIT can keep you very youthful.

Make HIIT a priority

Getting older doesn’t have to mean feeling aged. It goes without saying that having a wholesome, balanced diet is key to living a long and healthy life. Exercise is vital in this respect too. By practicing HIIT regularly – either on your own as part of a group – you can prove to yourself and others that, when it comes to being youthful, age is just a number.