interval training

noun

: a method of physical training that involves alternating brief periods (such as 1 to 2 minutes) of intense exercise with longer periods (such as 3 to 5 minutes) of less intense activity
This challenging 45-minute routine uses a strategy called interval training—alternating high-intensity activity with periods of "active rest," or lower-intensity exercise.Troy DeMond
interval training works both the aerobic and the anaerobic system. During the high intensity efforts, the anaerobic system uses the energy stored in the muscles (glycogen) for short bursts of activity.Donna Cotnam
see also high-intensity interval training

Examples of interval training in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Incline Range An incline range can lend variability to your workouts and is a great feature to have on hand for interval training or steep hikes. Ashley Zlatopolsky, Architectural Digest, 12 Sep. 2024 But a new study published in the journal Stroke suggests that some stroke survivors may get a better health boost from high intensity interval training (HIIT) — and suffer no health issues from these more challenging workouts. Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 9 Aug. 2024 Time crunch training: When finding time to exercise is a problem, low-volume, high intensity interval training (HIIT) programs allow a shorter exercise session with the same gain or better. Ian McMahan, Washington Post, 7 July 2024 However, walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training showed the most benefits, with running and interval training the most effective. Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 May 2024 Meredith calls it sprint interval training – or SIT. Mark Jackson, Discover Magazine, 2 Apr. 2024 The exception were folks doing high-intensity exercise, such as such as interval training, less than one hour before bed. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Mar. 2024 Strength training, running a few miles twice a week and taking high intensity interval training classes. David Oliver, USA TODAY, 4 Jan. 2024 The program is built on interval training, that is, running and walking at prescribed times. By Joan Chrissos, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'interval training.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interval training was in 1955

Dictionary Entries Near interval training

Cite this Entry

“Interval training.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interval%20training. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

interval training

noun
: a method of physical training that involves alternating brief periods (as 1 to 2 minutes) of intense exercise with longer periods (as 3 to 5 minutes) of less intense activity
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!