HIIT:
A New, Unique Protocol

Alvin H. Danenberg, DDS • Nutritional Periodontist
August 14, 2017 [printfriendly]

 

In May 2017, I published my article titled, Connecting The Dots: HIIT, Mitochondria, Gingivitis. I explained how science has demonstrated a positive link between high intensity interval training (HIIT) and overall health. Specifically, I described the link between HIIT and the health of the mitochondria relating to improved mouth health.

In my previously published book, Crazy-Good Living, I discuss my Four Pillars of Health. One of those essentials for overall health including mouth health is efficient exercise. Exercise is not just one “event”, and that’s it. It is a combination of activities performed regularly. Efficient exercise consists of a combination of (1) simple movement like walking daily; (2) aerobic activity like playing tennis or jogging a few times a week; (3) full-body weight training like squats, pushups, pull ups, and planks twice a week; and (4) a short but intensive anaerobic activity like high intensity interval training once every 7-10 days.

 

HIIT

There are many methods to perform high intensity interval training. In my book, I describe how I use a NordicTrack Cross Country Skier for 4-6 cycles. One cycle equals intense, all-out “skiing” for 25 seconds followed by a 90 second rest period. However, there are many other methods to accomplish what I accomplish with this routine.

Here is a new idea.

I get my knowledge from a lot of people. There are so many great minds out there, so I don’t have to try to reinvent the wheel. One of those great minds is Dr. Zach Bush, who also taps other great minds. Dr. Bush has the ability to summarize and simplify. He has perfected a HIIT routine that requires no equipment and can be performed anywhere at anytime. It is his 4-minute routine.

 

4-Minute Routine

High intensity interval training increases the creation of nitric oxide. HIIT stimulates the release of nitric oxide (NO) stored in the endothelial cells of blood vessels. NO effectively:

  • Causes blood vessels to relax and dilate, lowering blood pressure
  • Stimulates and improves immune function
  • Decreases the viscosity of blood, reducing platelet aggregation and the potential for stroke or heart attack
  • Provides anabolic stimulus to increases lean body mass
  • Improves the health of gingival tissues

 

Here is Dr. Zach Bush’s video demonstrating his simple routine:

 

This effective and quick routine has not been tested to equal the benefits of HIIT sprinting. However, I have tried it, and it is great. I include it in my routine several times a week. I continue to do my Nordic Track routine every 7-10 days. You may want to experiment with this efficient method. Let me know what you think.

 

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