The Best Treadmill Workout for HIIT...According to Me

I am not a runner. In fact, up until a few years ago I absolutely hated running workouts. I did everything in my power to try to get in shape and not set a single foot on the running track. But then I discovered the secret to running workouts. It’s called interval running.

Interval running workouts are short periods of high-intensity sprinting, jogging, and walking for about a 20-minute period, which all keep your heart rate up and shock your system so you get an efficient energy pump. Once I started taking my running workouts to the treadmill, running became a lot less….terrible. And all in just 20 minutes. You can do pretty much anything for 20 minutes.

Interval Running Benefits

Andrea Leopardi @whatyouhide

Andrea Leopardi @whatyouhide

There are a lot of benefits to interval running workouts. But here are just a few:

  • It improves fitness: A 20-minute interval run is great for your heart and cardiovascular system. Don’t even get me started on the endorphin high.

  • It’s FAST: You’re done with cardio in 20 minutes. A 20-minute interval run goes by SO quickly, and because you’re constantly changing the speeds and inclines, you don’t have time to get lost in treadmill hypnosis.

  • It burns the calories: Real talk for a second. There is *no* correct way to look or be. It is all about what looks and feels good to you and your specific, perfect body. I eat *LIKE A HORSE*. I am not one of those women who skips meals or skimps on ordering. But I eat as much as I do because I burn so many calories and I’m hungry all the time. If burning calories is something that interests you, this running workout is fire.

20-Minute Interval Running Workout

So without further ado, here is the miracle running workout. These are the speeds I started with and increased the running/sprinting sections by 0.1 every two weeks. I always leave the walking speeds the same. If this is too fast or too slow for you, please definitely do adjust to where is most comfortable. This is one of those building running strength workouts, and you’ll absolutely notice cardiovascular improvement every two weeks. You can download the PDF here.

Note: I do this exercise once as a warm-up before I start lifting. But if you do it twice in a row it’s a really solid workout.

Best running workouts

My Best Breakfast Smoothie Recipe

Best breakfast smoothie recipe

Okay so you want some energy to keep you fueled up for this 20-minute interval run? I’ve got you. My sister-in-law invented this HEAVENLY treat and I honestly can’t get enough. Below you’ll find the ingredients for the best breakfast smoothie recipe. Literally throw it all in a blender at once and watch the magic.

Note: I linked to products on Amazon, but you can get most of this at Trader Joe’s and it will be much, much cheaper.

What you’ll need:

Location Independent, On The Road, Wellness, ProductsMeagan DrillingerComment