Increased heart rate is typically associated with which type of exercise?

Increased heart rate is most commonly associated with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) due to the nature of this workout style that alternates between short bursts of intense effort and periods of rest or lower-intensity activity. During these high-intensity intervals, your body requires more oxygen and energy, prompting the heart to pump faster to supply the necessary blood flow to the muscles.

HIIT workouts often push individuals to work at a significant percentage of their maximum heart rate, resulting in cardiovascular fitness benefits as well as improved metabolic rate. The heart rate response during these sessions can be more pronounced compared to other forms of exercise, making HIIT particularly effective for enhancing cardiovascular endurance and athletic performance.

While aerobic exercise can also cause an increased heart rate, it generally maintains a stable, elevated rate over a longer duration, compared to the peaks and valleys associated with high-intensity interval training. Strength training can lead to a temporary increase in heart rate, but the heart rate may not reach the same elevated levels as during HIIT workouts due to the nature of exercise sets and rest periods. Low-intensity steady state exercise typically results in a much lower heart rate as it involves activities performed at a consistent, moderate level without significant increases in intensity.