AMA #57: High-intensity interval training: benefits, risks, protocols, and impact on longevity

Peter Attia

Mar 11, 2024

Episode description

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In this “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) episode, Peter delves into the topic of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), starting with addressing some common misunderstandings around this type of exercise and breaking down what HIIT truly entails. He examines the correlation between HIIT and VO2 max, a vital metric for overall health and longevity, and describes the beneficial impact of HIIT on longevity when incorporated properly. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of building a wide base of cardiovascular fitness, reveals the optimal protocols for incorporating HIIT into a balanced routine, and discusses the risk of injury and other potential drawbacks of HIIT.

If you’re not a subscriber and are listening on a podcast player, you’ll only be able to hear a preview of the AMA. If you’re a subscriber, you can now listen to this full episode on your private RSS feed or our website at the AMA #57 show notes page. If you are not a subscriber, you can learn more about the subscriber benefits here.

We discuss:

  • Common questions about high-intensity interval training (HIIT) [1:30];

  • The origins of HIIT [3:15];

  • Defining HIIT training and differentiating it from sprint interval training (SIT) [5:45];

  • Why HIIT is often touted as a more efficient way to exercise [14:00];

  • Navigating the nuances of HIIT research: understanding limitations and the importance of a blended exercise routine [20:30];

  • The four pillars of exercise [24:15];

  • Using HIIT to improve VO2 max [26:00];

  • HIIT training for the untrained individual: impact on VO2 max and the interplay between exercise-induced adaptations and potential weight loss [33:00];

  • Sprint interval training (SIT) vs. HIIT: comparing the relative improvements in VO2 max and the i

Episode description

View the Show Notes Page for This Episode

Become a Member to Receive Exclusive Content

Sign Up to Receive Peter’s Weekly Newsletter

In this “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) episode, Peter delves into the topic of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), starting with addressing some common misunderstandings around this type of exercise and breaking down what HIIT truly entails. He examines the correlation between HIIT and VO2 max, a vital metric for overall health and longevity, and describes the beneficial impact of HIIT on longevity when incorporated properly. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of building a wide base of cardiovascular fitness, reveals the optimal protocols for incorporating HIIT into a balanced routine, and discusses the risk of injury and other potential drawbacks of HIIT.

If you’re not a subscriber and are listening on a podcast player, you’ll only be able to hear a preview of the AMA. If you’re a subscriber, you can now listen to this full episode on your private RSS feed or our website at the AMA #57 show notes page. If you are not a subscriber, you can learn more about the subscriber benefits here.

We discuss:

  • Common questions about high-intensity interval training (HIIT) [1:30];

  • The origins of HIIT [3:15];

  • Defining HIIT training and differentiating it from sprint interval training (SIT) [5:45];

  • Why HIIT is often touted as a more efficient way to exercise [14:00];

  • Navigating the nuances of HIIT research: understanding limitations and the importance of a blended exercise routine [20:30];

  • The four pillars of exercise [24:15];

  • Using HIIT to improve VO2 max [26:00];

  • HIIT training for the untrained individual: impact on VO2 max and the interplay between exercise-induced adaptations and potential weight loss [33:00];

  • Sprint interval training (SIT) vs. HIIT: comparing the relative improvements in VO2 max and the i

Mindsip insights from this episode:

Measure max heart rate through maximal effort testing

The '220 minus your age' formula is insufficient for determining max heart rate; the only way to truly know it is to measure it during a maximal effort test.

Differentiate HIIT from sprint training for effective workouts

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is sub-maximal, while Sprint Interval Training (SIT) is a supra-maximal effort that exceeds your VO2 max power output.

Maximize effort with 10-second all-out rule

A true 'all-out' effort can only be sustained for about 10 seconds, as anything longer causes you to subconsciously hold back.

Specify effort levels and durations instead of saying 'HIIT'

Instead of using the vague term 'HIIT,' be specific about the effort level, work duration, rest duration, and number of repetitions.

Utilize power or RPE for effective training intervals

When structuring training intervals, using power (watts) or Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) is more robust than relying on heart rate.

Recognize Irawa as true creator of Tabata protocol

The famous Tabata protocol was actually developed by coach Irawa, not the researcher Tabata who first authored the paper on it.

Understand that sprints don't maximize heart rate

Short, all-out sprints often result in a lower peak heart rate than longer VO2 max intervals because there isn't enough time for the heart to reach its maximum.

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