In 1994, before the creation of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, the Today show anchors of Katie Couric, Bryant Gumbel, and Elizabeth Vargas attempted to explain what the internet is. It’s funny in hindsight. I don’t think many of us could have done a better job at that time. This piece of nostalgia has
become so popular that it was spoofed in a 2015 Superbowl ad for BMW. If you aren’t familiar with the original scene, here’s the clip.
https://www.today.com/popculture/tv/katie-couric-bryant-gumbel-elizabeth-vargas-internet-rcna67838
Watching them struggle with the explanation is how I feel when I listen to one of my members who participates in our semi-private training, explain what they do at the studio. “It’s kind of different.” “We use kettlebells.” “It’s hard and get’s your heart rate up.” “It’s not like the other gyms.” You can understand why I was happy when I came across a clear description when I was reading some of the latest research based upon one of the workouts we coach at the studio. Our most popular workout, the Torch workout, is a high-intensity functional training workout (HIFT). Like the internet, its fairly new. Coaches started using this type of workout in the last fifteen years. It’s a full-body workout that focuses on multi-joint exercises that mimic everyday activities, such as pulling, lifting, carrying – combined with aerobic and resistance training components. It can be adapted and modified to all skill and fitness levels. If you’re like me and like to read the research on it, here’s the article I was reading:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6162410/
In the past, I have referenced our training as HIIT, because of the high intensity nature of the workout. But true HIIT workouts tend to be cardio type exercises purely, such as biking and rowing. Our workouts, on the other hand, have that plus a variety of strengthening exercises. I like the definition one of the researchers, Feito, chose to use: “Training style or program that incorporates functional, multimodal movements, performed at relatively high intensity, and designed to improve parameters of general physical fitness and performance.”
Another key trait of this workout is that intensity is relative to an individual’s ability. At the studio, load, the type of load (bodyweight, sandbag, kettlebell, etc.), and energy a person uses to “attack” the drill all varies. That’s always been a focal point for me. Everyone is unique, has their own gear, and I want to respect that.
In a 2014 study, a comparison tracked adherence of different exercise programs. After 8 weeks of training, found the HIFT group ranked significantly highest, with participants stating that they intended to continue the HIFT program. This doesn’t surprise me, as our average member has been with us for 3 years.
If I haven’t sold you on the benefits of HIFT training, a recent study cited better cognition and brain function in older adults who participated in HIFT type workouts. They cited the reason as an improvement in production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which is an important protein which makes neurons within the brain. You will look and feel better, and you’ll finish the crossword puzzle a little faster. Hopefully, next time you’re out having coffee with friends, and it comes up, you’ll be able to describe what you do at J & D Fitness Personal Training.
I’ll see you at the studio.