What type of exercise is characterized by short bursts of intense activity followed by rest?

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is characterized by short bursts of intense physical activity followed by periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise. This training method is designed to maximize efficiency in a shorter time frame, combining periods of high effort with recovery phases to allow the body to partially recover before the next interval of intense work begins.

HIIT is particularly effective for improving cardiovascular fitness and can lead to enhanced fat burning, increased metabolism, and improved muscular endurance due to the demands it places on the body. The alternating intensity of the work and rest intervals not only helps in building stamina and strength but also keeps the workouts engaging and diverse.

On the other hand, steady-state cardio involves maintaining a consistent, moderate level of effort throughout the duration of the exercise, which lacks the high-intensity bursts characteristic of HIIT. Endurance training focuses on sustained efforts over longer periods to improve aerobic capacity and endurance, differing from the intense, alternating nature of HIIT. Core stability exercises primarily target the muscles of the torso to improve stability and balance, not particularly focusing on the intensity and interval patterns found in high-intensity interval training.