The Only 3 Moves You Need To Put Together a Fast and Fun Holiday HIIT Workout

From parties to decorating and traveling, the holiday season can leave you wondering when you’ll have time to sleep, let alone squeeze in a workout. So, how do you get the most out of your fitness routine (and still enjoy all the seasonal fun)? Try doing a holiday HIIT workout, suggest Karena Dawn and Katrina Scott. The duo behind the super-popular online fitness community Tone It Up says it’s one way to reap major exercise benefits without requiring a lot of time (which you likely don’t have a ton of right now).

“We’re in love with HIIT workouts because you get a cardio and toning sesh that raises your heart rate while strengthening your muscles,” says Dawn. “You get the perks of cardio and the after-burn effects of strength training, which means your metabolism is boosted long after your workout ends.”

Dawn and Scott say they personally aim for two to three HIIT workouts per week for the best results and plan ahead to ensure they’ve left room in the calendars. “On Sundays, we sign up for classes to fit our schedule and keep ourselves accountable—accountability is especially important during the holidays when your schedule is a little more packed,” says Scott. “Treating your body with love and support through exercise will help you feel like your best self.”

For a holiday HIIT workout you can do anywhere, try completing 3 rounds of each of the moves below say the Tone It Up founders

1. Fallen Star Toe Touch

Strengthen your core, shoulders, and inner thighs with the fallen start touch. Begin in a plank position with your hands directly below your shoulders, core engaged. Twist to your right side and lift your right arm up. Kick your left leg through and try to touch your toes with your extended fingers. Return back to start. Repeat on the opposite side.

Do 15 reps on each side.

2. Around the World Jump Squat

This move tones your entire lower body while raising your heart rate and metabolism. Begin in a squat position, feet hip-width apart. Make sure your knees don’t go past your toes. Push off the ground and jump to the left. Land softly in a squat position. Jump back to start, then jump to your right.

Complete 15 reps on each side.

3. Single Leg Lifted Pushup

Target your triceps, chest, and booty with this one. Begin in a plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and core engaged. Lift one leg behind you. Keeping your leg straight, bend at the elbow, and lower your chest toward the ground trying to get your arms to a 90-degree angle. Push up to return to your starting position and lower your leg. Raise the opposite leg for the next rep.

Complete 15 reps.

Even more HIIT to do this holiday season: 

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This post was originally published on December 14, 2017; updated on November 6, 2020.