What is HIIT Class? Plus My Favorite Edgy Workout Wear

Fresh off a 7 day Barry’s Bootcamp challenge (yep, that’s 7 classes in 7 days). I literally cannot move, my body is so sore. I didn’t think my body would be able to handle 7 days in a row of such intense exercise! While I’m happy I was able to push myself to complete the challenge, I’m actually pretty relieved it’s over. Back to my 3x/week workout plan, haha! I will say that Barry’s Bootcamp is the best workout I’ve ever done for my body, and since starting to take classes (at first sporadically, now somewhat more consistently), I’ve been able to see a real change in my body.

Read: slowly maybe gaining some muscle definition? Anyway, for those of you that aren’t familiar with Barry’s Bootcamp, it’s a form of HIIT. What is HIIT, you ask? HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training. It has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to lose weight and tone up fast! With swimsuit season HERE and intimidating as ever, if you’re looking to shape up quickly, you definitely want to be doing HIIT.

What is HIIT?

HIIT, or High Intensity Interval Training, is an exercise method in which you alternate between periods of high intensity exercises (read: really hard) with low intensity exercises. For example – sprinting on the treadmill for 30-60 seconds, followed by walking or jogging for 30-90 seconds.

Why is HIIT effective?

By switching between high and low intensities, HIIT has been shown to burn more calories and fat than steady state exercise and boost your metabolism. It’s effective and allows you to shorten your time at the gym with all the benefits and then some. If you hate the thought of an hour on the treadmill or the elliptical machine, then you definitely want to incorporate more intervals in your life! I’m heading to Europe in two weeks and in anticipation of being in a swimsuit 24/7 I’ve definitely been trying to ramp up my workouts. HIIT is a great way to do so!

And of course, one of the best ways to motivate myself to hit the gym is by buying a new gym outfit. Whatever it takes, right? ; )

Look cute while training with my favorite edgy workout wear picks:

Cropped Star Hoodie

As you already know, I have a huge soft spot for anything with stars on it. This cropped hoodie is perfect for throwing on over a sports bra and running to the gym, going on a hike, running errands, or even just laying around the house.

My Favorite Sports Bra for HIIT

This sports bra has gotten me through the toughest workouts! It’s especially great for high intensity workouts as it provides medium support (for small to medium chests) which is perfect for anything from weight lifting to spin to pilates class.

The BEST Leggings Ever by Varley

Love the material Varley uses for their workout clothes, not to mention they always come in the coolest prints and most flattering shapes. You probably already have 10 pairs of basic black leggings, so opt for a pair with some mesh detailing. (Black + mesh panels = super slimming pant!).

Get To-and-From the Gym in this Mesh Jacket

Very into mesh details right now, can you tell? This jacket is simple yet edgy (love both black and white versions!) and at $25 (!!) is the ideal breathable layer to bring with you as you go to and from your workout this summer. I have the black version and I love it!

A Must Have Printed Cut Out Sports Bra

As you can tell, Strut This makes some of my favorite workout clothes. This cut out sports bra is different than the usual basic sports bra so you’ll be sure to stand out at the gym.

Light as Air APL Sneakers

These sneakers really are SO comfortable! One of my favorite bloggers, Marianna Hewitt wears these all the time. I knew I had to snag a pair for myself. The all black is classic. It goes with everything, but these light as air sneakers come in so many fun colors; including rose gold, my fave!.

How are you shaping up for summer?