In today’s fast-paced and less active world, finding effective and efficient ways to take care of our skin is crucial. Our lifestyles have become very lethargic as everything is comfortably available. One approach that has gained significant popularity is High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). You would be surprised to know how being active and by introducing HIIT into your daily routine benefits and boosts up your skin health.
While HIIT is primarily known for its cardiovascular and weight loss benefits, it also offers numerous advantages for our skin health.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of HIIT for the skin and discuss the best high-intensity interval training exercises to incorporate into your routine.
Factors that Benefits Skin Health
When it comes to maintaining healthy skin, our lifestyle choices play a significant role. Alongside a balanced diet and a good skincare routine, incorporating exercise into our daily lives can greatly benefit our skin.
One exercise regimen that is exceptional for skin health is High-Intensity Interval Training, commonly known as HIIT.
Understanding Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) For Skin
HIIT is a type of workout that involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief recovery periods. This form of exercise has gained immense popularity due to its efficiency and time-saving nature. It typically consists of a combination of cardio and strength exercises, such as sprints, burpees, jumping jacks, and squats.
The increased heart rate and sweat because of HIIT benefits a lot in overall skin health. Here are the reasons on how-
1) Increased Blood Circulation
Engaging in HIIT workouts leads to a significant increase in blood circulation throughout the body.
As a result, the skin receives a higher supply of oxygen and essential nutrients, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.
Improved blood flow also aids in the removal of waste products and toxins, further contributing to the overall health of the skin.
2) Enhanced Oxygen Supply
The intense nature of HIIT exercises pushes the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently.
This increased demand for oxygen helps improve the oxygen supply to the skin cells, allowing them to function optimally.
Oxygen plays a vital role in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
3) Detoxification and Cleansing
The combination of intense exercise and increased blood circulation during HIIT workouts supports the detoxification process in the body.
Sweating helps unclog pores, eliminating toxins and impurities that can contribute to various skin issues such as acne and dullness.
Regular HIIT sessions can aid in achieving clearer and healthier-looking skin.
4) Reduction in Stress Levels
Stress is a common culprit behind various skin concerns, including acne breakouts and premature aging.
Engaging in HIIT workouts triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters.
These endorphins help alleviate stress, promoting a more balanced and calm state of mind.
Reduced stress levels can have a positive impact on the skin, leading to a clearer and more vibrant complexion.
5) Increased Collagen Production
Collagen is a crucial protein that provides structural support to the skin. With age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
However, HIIT exercises stimulate collagen production, helping to maintain skin elasticity and combat the signs of aging.
The increased collagen synthesis contributes to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
6) Improved Skin Elasticity (best HIIT benefit)
Loss of skin elasticity is a common concern as we age. The repetitive and intense movements performed during HIIT workouts activate the muscles, promoting muscle tone and overall firmness.
By targeting specific muscle groups, HIIT exercises help improve skin elasticity and contribute to a more toned and youthful appearance.
7) Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging Effects
The combination of increased blood circulation, enhanced oxygen supply, collagen production, and improved skin elasticity provided by HIIT exercises creates a powerful anti-aging effect.
Regular HIIT workouts can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, resulting in a more rejuvenated and youthful complexion.
8) Enhanced Skin Glow (Best HIIT Skin Benefits)
One of the most noticeable benefits of HIIT for the skin is the natural glow it imparts.
The improved blood circulation, detoxification, and overall skin health enhancements achieved through HIIT contribute to a radiant and healthy complexion.
The post-workout flush and increased circulation result in a youthful and vibrant glow that lasts beyond the workout session.
How much HIIT to do that benefits skin
The glow in your skin primarily comes from factors like good hydration, a balanced diet, proper skincare routine, sufficient sleep, and overall healthy lifestyle habits.
However, incorporating HIIT into your exercise routine can indirectly support skin health by improving blood flow, reducing stress, and promoting a healthy body weight.
To reap the benefits of HIIT for your skin, aim for a well-rounded exercise routine that includes a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises. You can consider incorporating HIIT workouts into your routine 2-3 times per week, along with other forms of exercise.
Remember, achieving and maintaining healthy skin requires a holistic approach that encompasses multiple factors. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle, stay hydrated, nourish your body with nutrient-rich foods, protect your skin from excessive sun exposure, and establish a consistent skincare routine to support your skin’s natural glow.
Recommended HIIT Exercises that benefits skin
1) Burpees
Start in a standing position, then drop into a squat and place your hands on the floor. Kick your feet back into a plank position, perform a push-up, jump your feet back to your hands, and explosively jump up into the air. Repeat for a designated number of repetitions.
2) Mountain Climbers
Begin in a plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders. Alternate bringing your knees in toward your chest as if you were running horizontally. Also, maintain a quick pace and engage your core throughout the exercise.
3) Jump Squats
Start in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower into a squat position, then explosively jump up into the air. As you land, lower back into a squat and repeat the movement.
4) High Knees
Stand tall and start jogging in place while lifting your knees as high as possible. Engage your core and maintain a quick and controlled pace.
5) Jumping Lunges
Begin in a lunge position with your right leg forward and left leg back. Jump explosively, switching your leg positions mid-air, and land in a lunge with your left leg forward. Then, continue alternating legs for the desired number of repetitions.
Conclusion
Incorporating High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) into your fitness routine not only helps improve cardiovascular health and aids in weight loss but also offers numerous benefits for your skin and many other benefits.
From increased blood circulation and oxygen supply to detoxification and anti-aging effects, HIIT workouts can significantly contribute to achieving a healthy, radiant, and youthful complexion.
FAQs
1) Can anyone do HIIT workouts, regardless of their fitness level?
Yes, HIIT workouts can be modified to suit different fitness levels. Also, beginners can start with lower-intensity exercises and gradually increase the intensity as their fitness improves.
2) How often should I incorporate HIIT workouts into my routine?
It is recommended to engage in HIIT workouts 2-3 times per week, allowing for sufficient rest and recovery between sessions.
3) Can HIIT workouts help with skin conditions like acne?
While HIIT workouts can support overall skin health, individual results may vary. It is always best to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice regarding specific skin conditions.
4) How long should a typical HIIT workout session last?
IIT workouts are typically short but intense. A typical session can range from 15 to 30 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down periods.
5) Are there any precautions I should take before starting HIIT workouts?
It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have underlying health conditions or injuries.
