HIIT focuses more on timed intensity intervals followed by short breaks.
Crossfit
workouts follow a set time frame or a specific set of repetitions. The frequency of rest depends on the person who decides. CrossFit sets training goals, such as the number of repetitions that must be completed in a set period of time.As we mentioned, CrossFit is a form of high-intensity interval training, or HIIT - sometimes referred to as bootcamp classes . This broad term refers to extremely hard workouts performed for short periods of time with little rest in between (via Healthline). This usually causes a large amount of calories to be burned in a short period of time. Crossfit is a good extension of HIIT workouts, as they tend to be a little longer and more intense.
If you're ready to start a training plan and haven't been in good physical shape for some time, HIIT training is a good starting point. If you're ready to try harder and build on the foundation you've developed, Crossfit would be a fun challenge and could also guarantee results. On the other hand, another attitude towards HIIT vs Crossfit means that there are clear distinctions between the two. HIIT defines the action-rest intervals, while Crossfit works in a range of intensities; which means that Crossfit does not have to be at maximum intensity unless the program is designed to do so.
Metrics such as maximum oxygen consumption (VO2MAX) and lactate threshold are not considered as much in CF compared to HIIT. Crossfit also involves HIIT during MetCon. Unlike HIIT, Crossfit has been criticized by some in the fitness community for its unsafe and unorthodox strategy for quick muscle definition and weight loss; but it certainly makes things more exciting if you and your teammates have developed a real passion for it. Keep in mind that if you do intense strength training on your legs one day, it will be difficult if you do HIIT sprints the next day.
Crossfit is relatively newer and has more options available to the user for creative workouts if things stagnate, but if you like to rely on smaller, safer programs, choose HIIT. This essentially means that CrossFit uses a wide variety of functional exercises in different ways to help you develop a broad fitness base. Neither Crossfit nor HIIT will result in an ideal fat-burning plan unless they accompany a proper nutrition program. Intentions are sound, but can cause serious injury; therefore, it is recommended that HIIT and CrossFit be performed with the supervision of a trained instructor.
CrossFit incorporates HIIT and Tabata into its programming from time to time, so you can get the best of both worlds when you choose it. Since both share tons of similarities, many have confused the two frequently, so it's time to dig deeper into the differences between HIIT and Crossfit. HIIT and Tabata workouts (remember, Tabata is a type of HIIT) are definitely enjoyable and great for getting in shape. Some of the most popular exercise routines that have been created recently are CrossFit and HIIT (high intensity interval training).
But the two aren't the same, so understanding the difference can help you make a more informed decision for your fitness program. Both are known to burn a lot of calories in a short period of time, but there are some key differences between how they work. For those in the Columbia, Maryland area looking for either program, The Endurance Factory Fitness offers both a CrossFit program and hiit-style IntervalFit bootcamp classes.
