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A recent study examining the effects of HIIT on blood pressure in adults over 60 found that it can boost heart health and keep blood pressure in a healthy range. Researchers divided 266 participants, aged 60 or older, into three groups. One group did HIIT exercise, one did moderate exercise, and the third group did no exercise at all. The study lasted four weeks, and in the end, participants who did HIIT showed a significant reduction in blood pressure. (It’s worth noting that moderate exercise showed similar results — meaning it’s possible that older adults can see the same benefits from less intense activities.)

What is HIIT?

With HIIT, you repeat short rounds of several motions, each only lasting from 30 seconds to three minutes. Basically, you can do any form of intense exercise for a few minutes, alternating with a lighter activity for a few minutes — hence the “interval” part of HIIT. While HIIT may be a harder workout than your usual routine, the health benefits can be amazing. Since it includes lots of cardio, it helps boost heart health. And according to WebMD, it can also help you lose weight, build muscle, and even boost your metabolism.