High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT alternates short bursts of intense exercise with rest — a time-efficient way to burn fat and boost metabolism.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
HIIT involves alternating short bursts of vigorous exercise with brief rest or low-intensity periods — for example, 30 seconds of sprinting followed by 60 seconds of walking, repeated for 15–20 minutes. HIIT can burn as many calories as longer steady-state cardio in a fraction of the time and is especially effective for reducing visceral (belly) fat. It also boosts your metabolism for hours after the workout, a phenomenon known as the "afterburn effect."
Medical
Clinical Definition
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) consists of repeated bouts of exercise performed at ≥80% of maximum heart rate or VO₂max, interspersed with recovery periods of low-intensity activity or complete rest. HIIT induces excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), elevating metabolic rate for up to 24 hours post-exercise. Meta-analyses demonstrate HIIT to be superior to moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) for reducing total body fat, visceral adipose tissue, and improving insulin sensitivity, with a time efficiency advantage of approximately 40%. Contraindications include uncontrolled hypertension, unstable angina, and certain musculoskeletal injuries.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
For busy Singaporean patients who struggle to find time for exercise, HIIT offers an evidence-based, time-efficient alternative — Dr. Wang's team can help you implement it safely based on your fitness level.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.