When people go to the gym, they must decide whether to do cardio, strength training, or a combination of both. Some people may do high-intensity sessions to push themselves to the limit, get their heart rate up, and break a sweat. Beyond burning calories, high-intensity cardio builds endurance and relieves stress, making it ideal for everyone.
For gym owners, promoting high-intensity cardio can attract members looking for fast results and varied workout options. Let’s explore what high-intensity cardio is and how it leads to a path to better fitness.
What Is High-Intensity Cardio?
There are a few different ways to define high-intensity cardio, but the general concept involves pushing your body to its maximum capacity for a short period. This can include sprinting, cycling at high resistance, or performing plyometric exercises like burpees and jump squats.
Ultimately, the goal of a high-intensity workout is to quickly elevate the heart rate and sustain it throughout the exercise routine. However, this doesn’t mean you must be at peak intensity for the entire workout. Most high-intensity cardio workouts involve periods of intense activity followed by short rest or recovery periods.
High-Impact vs Low-Impact
When we think about high-intensity workouts, running may be the first thing that comes to mind. While hopping on the treadmill may give your gym members an intense cardio workout, it’s not the only option. High-impact exercise like running places significant stress on joints and is not ideal for all gym goers.
Low-impact workouts—cycling, rowing, and using an elliptical—can also provide high-intensity cardio without stressing joints. These options may be better suited for individuals with joint pain or injuries, making it important to offer a variety of high-intensity exercises at your gym.
Ideal Machines for High-Intensity Cardio
Selecting the right machines for your fitness center is essential for promoting high-intensity cardio workouts. Some of the top machines to consider include:
- Treadmills
- Stationary Bikes
- Elliptical Trainers
- Rowing Machines
Incorporating a variety of machines allows for diversity in workouts and helps prevent boredom. Various options accommodate any physical limitations or injuries that may prevent individuals from using specific machines.
Treadmill
Treadmills are a popular gym option because people can use them for running or sprinting during an intense workout and then walk to cool down. Users may also set the treadmill to a lower speed but high incline for a high-intensity and low-impact routine.
Stationary Bike
For those seeking a low-impact yet effective alternative, stationary bikes are an excellent platform for high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This machine provides a challenging workout without strain on joints, making it more accessible for everyone.
When shopping for stationary bikes, decide whether you want upright bikes, recumbent bikes, or both. While upright bikes are similar to traditional bicycles, recumbent bikes have a reclined seat and pedals in the front. Having both options can accommodate different preferences and abilities.
Pro Tip
Equipment accessibility expands your market reach and creates a genuinely inclusive environment where all members feel valued regardless of their fitness level or physical limitations.
Elliptical
The elliptical merges intensity with joint-friendly movement patterns by mimicking the running motion without the harsh impact. Plus, most ellipticals have moveable handlebars that engage the arm muscles. By activating the arms, legs, and core, users force the body to work harder, increasing their workout’s intensity.
Rower
Rowers combines high-intensity cardio with strength training. A single session on this machine engages muscles in the arms, legs, back, and core, delivering excellent strength and endurance gains. The user can adjust the resistance and speed as needed to increase the intensity.
Stair Climber
Stair climbers are highly effective for targeting specific lower-body muscles such as the thighs, glutes, and calves. While this machine allows for a lower-impact movement, a workout can still be intense and burn many calories. It’s ideal for those looking to tone and strengthen their lower body while getting a high-intensity cardio workout.
The Benefit of Mixing It Up
When evaluating high-intensity cardio and how it leads to better fitness, it’s essential to consider the benefits of variety. While sticking to a single machine can provide an excellent workout, changing routines allows members to work different muscle groups.
Strategic combinations of high and low-impact cardio options promote overall fitness by targeting different body areas and providing varying intensity levels.
Moreover, continuously doing the same workout can halt progress since the body adapts, leading to fitness plateaus. However, when your gym has numerous types of cardio machines, members can alternate between them to challenge various muscles while keeping the body guessing.
Pro Tip
Showcasing diverse options for high-intensity cardio ensures members remain motivated and avoid stagnation. This approach demonstrates that your gym is truly committed to individualized fitness journeys rather than a one-size-fits-all journey for everyone.
Encourage Various Types of Workout Routines
When we hear about high-intensity workouts, HIIT (high-intensity interval training) often comes to mind. However, other forms of high-intensity cardio can be just as effective. Consider highlighting these powerful alternatives:
- Circuit training: Combines strength and endurance exercises with minimal rest periods.
- Plyometrics: High-intensity bodyweight exercises like squats, burpees, and box jumps.
- Kickboxing: Combines martial arts, aerobics, and boxing in one routine.
High-intensity cardio is a valuable tool for promoting better fitness and attracting new members to your gym, and the more options you can offer, the better.
Tips for Incorporating Variety in Your Gym
Providing resources and inspiration for members to experiment with different equipment can significantly enhance their fitness experiences. For example, you may host classes for HIIT to teach proper techniques while building a community around challenging workouts.
If you run a gym dedicated to high-intensity cardio, divide your space into zones, each with a unique intensity level. This allows gym members to train based on their fitness levels and gradually increase the intensity of their workout over time.
Rotating your equipment layout can also increase curiosity and engagement, encouraging members to explore machines they might not typically use.
Hire Trainers
Newcomers to high-intensity cardio face significant challenges that can lead to frustration or injury without the proper guidance. Skilled trainers can help members navigate different workout options and equipment to avoid injuries.
Professional trainers craft workouts tailored to each individual’s fitness level and goals. This personalized approach can incentivize members to continue their high-intensity cardio journey at your gym.
Buy The Right Gear
When selecting equipment, it’s important to consider the user experience. Machines should be easy to use, adjustable for various fitness levels, and durable enough to withstand continuous use. Evaluate each machine’s resistance levels and speeds to determine suitability for high-intensity workouts.
Contact Us
Investing in high-quality equipment and offering diverse options for high-intensity cardio can set your gym apart. TRUE Fitness has numerous commercial cardio gym equipment options, including treadmills, exercise bikes, stair climbers, and more. Get the best gear for your gym so members can hit their fitness goals. Contact our team to learn more about our equipment and how it can optimize your gym space!