Last Updated on December 15, 2021 by Jeff
If there’s one thing that’s become clear over the years, it’s that more fitness enthusiasts have started to try HIIT workouts. HIIT stands for high-intensity interval training, and is a pretty challenging fitness option. A HIIT routine can lead to dramatic results, and is particularly convenient for people with a busy schedule.
Before you start though, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect against injury. Because HIIT involves repeated bursts of intense movement, the chances of injury run a bit higher than other indoor exercise options. And the best place to start with proper HIIT gear is, of course, shoes.
What is HIIT?
High-intensity interval training, or HIIT workouts involve intervals of short periods of intense physical activity and recovery. This type of exercise allows participants to achieve higher levels of fat loss without losing muscle mass. Its most important advantage, however, is that it’s relatively quick to do, which makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
While HIIT has an extraordinary potential as an exercise routine, it’s not without drawbacks. A study at Rutgers University, for example, found that high intensity training can increase the probability of injury to the knees. The speed at which each part of the routine is performed also adds strain to the feet and ankles, which can be protected by wearing the appropriate footwear, although this may require doing some additional research.
How to Choose the Right Shoes
Look for Ankle Support
Ankle injuries are easy to get but hard to recover from, and a slow recovery can seriously impact your training plans. There are some shoes that are address ankle support specifically. Asics’ Impact Guidance System, for example, reduces ankle movement and keeps the foot in the best position for landing. The On Cloudflyer, on the other hand, uses a memory foam heel cap that provides additional support for the ankle and prevents slippage while doing runs or jumps.
Research Shock Absorption Technology
Shoe brands have invested a considerable amount of effort in shock absorption technology. Nike uses sets of highly tensioned polyester fibers and a proprietary form of foam in order to provide top-grade cushioning. Adidas, on the other hand, uses thousands of capsules combining a special type of foam and polyurethane to create comfort, but also energy return.
Stay Up to Date with the Latest Models
Proper shoe technology for athletics is the result of decades of research, but it’s also under constant improvement. Every month companies release models that bring something new to the table, and the best way to stay protected as an athlete is by keeping up with the latest developments. SoleSavy allows people to connect with other enthusiasts waiting for the latest pairs, as well as providing information about release dates and even discounts on new releases. You can also opt to consult with other athletes and experts and find which models they trust to perform well.
Your Gear Matters
HIIT workouts have a ton of advantages for fitness enthusiasts, especially those on a busy schedule. But in order to take full advantage of the exercise, you must find a pair of shoes that will protect you from injury. Researching sneaker features and staying up to date with the latest advances is the only way to ensure this, especially if HIIT is something you’re planning to do regularly.