High-Intensity Interval Training is basically another type of exercise protocol that is based on shorter training sessions designed to improve performance. There is a lot of controversy over whether or not HIT is actually the best way to train. After reading several articles reporting research on this method of training, I believe that it can be a very effective method of training. However, like every training protocol I have been exposed to, there will be exceptions to the prescriptions. I am a strong supporter of the Specificity Principle and I don't believe there is any perfect protocol for training that will apply to everyone.
Regarding some recent reading on HIT that I have done, there are numerous studies showing that HIT is effective. In a study performed on college-aged men and women who were active, but not in a structured training program, participants showed notable results of improvement in exercise capacity, increased skeletal muscle oxidative capacity, increased resting glycogen content, and a decreased rate of glycogen utilization and lactate production after 2-6 weeks of HIT training. (Gibala and McGee).
It is because of studies, such as the one done by Gibala and McGee, that I am an advocator of HIT. However studies have also shown that, overall, HIT is not as effective when compared to periodization programs. I believe that the best training protocol is one that incorporates elements of different protocols into one. When a strength coach is designing a training plan for their athletes, the best protocol will be one that meets the needs of that specific team and its individuals. Unfortunately, I don't believe there is one single protocol out there that will meet those specific demands everytime.
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