1 HIRT is the new HIIT
If you prefer lifting weights to flinging yourself around
doing endless cardio then you’ll be happy to hear about
the growing number of HIRT classes, otherwise known as
high intensity resistance training. HIRT focuses on high-
intensity exercises done with dumbbells, kettlebells or bands.
“HIRT slows things down. Even though you are working to
the level of intensity that will challenge you, it gives you the
time to be more mindful of movement,” says Nik Naidoo,
co-founder of the online strength training platform
GrndHouse. “There are lots of benefits. It will aid muscle
growth, strengthen your bones and joints and is more
sustainable than endless amounts of HIIT.” Want to try?
GrndHouse has opened its first studio in Paddington, west
London, and also does online classes. grndhouse.comHOW
TO
GET
FIT
NOW
From a souped-up skipping rope
to the cult new class, there’s a
whole new world of workouts to
try this spring (and most of them
are pretty hardcore, apologies).
See you on the mat
Words Jessica Salter,
Hannah Evans and Roisin Kelly2 Join the Turf Games
Nobody, nobody, enjoys burpees, so it may come as a
surprise to learn that it’s becoming increasingly popular to
do them competitively. This summer there will be fitness
events such as Turf Games and Hyrox (nicknamed PE for
adults) across the country. During each competition gym
obsessives will compete to complete a set number of
exercises including squats, ball slams, sandbag tosses and
burpees against the clock. And they take it very, very
seriously. Competitors are called “athletes”, there are
prizes for those who finish the workout the fastest and the
events are streamed online. You might think that it sounds
bizarre, but spaces sell out fast and you can even buy a
spectator ticket to go and watch. For a glimpse into this
strange world of competitive exercise, follow fit-fluencers
such as @faisalpmafitness and @gus.witfitness —
personal trainers who have hosted events.© Laura Jane Coulson, Getty Images
The Sunday Times Style • 9