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      Types of training: can you complete a HIIT training session?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can complete a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) session with a focus on maximum power output.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: sprinting requires a relaxed yet vigorous arm swing, with elbows bent at 90 degrees.
      2. Think: appreciating sprint training boosts metabolism by increasing calorie burn during and after exercise.
      3. Feel: pushing your body hard in short bursts leaves you breathless, muscles burning, but energised.
      4. Connect: working out together is motivating and supportive, and makes the experience enjoyable.

      Keywords

      • HIIT - high intensity interval training - short bursts of intense exercise followed by a brief rest of low effort

      • Power - the ability to use strength quickly to produce explosive movement

      • Recovery - the time your body and mind use to rest, repair and regain energy after exercise

      Common misconception

      Training must be at maximal effort to push past the pain.

      The focus should be on vigorous activity. Listen to your body and work at a high intensity, but one that is dicated by your current fitness levels and the sort of exercise you are used to.

      Equipment

      A clear and safe space to perform bodyweight exercises and a stopwatch

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is most important when completing bodyweight exercises?

      Correct answer: correct technique
      maximum repetitions
      maximum sets
      at least 60 seconds of recovery between exercises

      Q2.
      Which of the following goes down during circuit training?

      heart rate
      breathing rate
      lactic acid production
      Correct answer: oxygen supply to the working muscles

      Q3.
      Which of the following exercises would not really work in a circuit training session?

      press ups
      sit ups
      step ups
      Correct answer: swimming

      Q4.
      What is the best definition of determination?

      the end of a training programme
      the act of being easily swayed by external opinions or obstacles
      Correct answer: the drive to keep working towards a goal
      a state of confusion, indecision and a lack of clear purpose

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How should you be breathing and talking if you are doing the 'work' part of a HIIT session correctly?

      breathing slightly harder, but you could still have a full conversation
      breathing slowly, and you could easily sing a song
      Correct answer: breathing hard, and you can only say a few words at a time
      you shouldn't be breathing at all to save your energy

      Q2.
      What is the key difference between circuit training and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)?

      1 minute of work followed by 10 seconds of rest
      Correct answer: 30 seconds of work followed by 30 seconds of rest
      5 minutes of work followed by 1 minute of rest
      2 minutes of work followed by 5 minutes of rest

      Q3.
      Which of the following will not happen straight after a HIIT session?

      feeling breathless
      a burning sensation in muscles
      feeling energised
      Correct answer: a low heart rate

      Q4.
      Which of the following is not a benefit of completing a HIIT session with someone else?

      improved motivation
      increased support
      Correct answer: reduced effort levels
      more enjoyable experience

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Types of training: can you complete a HIIT training session?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...