interval training
noun
: a method of physical training that involves alternating brief periods (such as 1 to 2 minutes) of intense exercise with longer periods (such as 3 to 5 minutes) of less intense activity
This challenging 45-minute routine uses a strategy called interval training—alternating high-intensity activity with periods of "active rest," or lower-intensity exercise.—
Troy DeMond
Troy DeMond… interval training works both the aerobic and the anaerobic system. During the high intensity efforts, the anaerobic system uses the energy stored in the muscles (glycogen) for short bursts of activity.—Donna Cotnam
see also high-intensity interval training
Donna CotnamExamples of interval training in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
If your cardiorespiratory fitness could use a boost, Gavino said a wide range of physical activities can help, including aerobic activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, and interval training.
—Sarah Garone, Health, 13 May 2026
Chapa’s 120-mile weeks at Hammond were replaced by Dellinger’s training system that emphasized lower miles but more intensity and interval training year-round.
—Scott M. Reid, Oc Register, 25 Apr. 2026
Long-interval training requires 15-20 minutes per session.
—Teresa Maalouf, Verywell Health, 17 Apr. 2026
For about five minutes, the two kept passing each other as the man alternated between running and walking, similar to interval training, but Barker still instinctively took out her mace.
—Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 31 Mar. 2026
Fitness adaptation to sprint interval training and continuous running in older adults. .
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Oct. 2025
La Costa’s group fitness classes span everything from yoga, spin, and Pilates to power boxing, high intensity interval training, and cardiovascular boot camp.
—Joe Yogerst, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
Incorporate high intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workout routine, recommends Mason.
—Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 13 July 2025
To maximize fat loss, focus on high-intensity interval training.
—Fred Sassani, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
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Sarah Garone, Health, 13 May 2026
Chapa’s 120-mile weeks at Hammond were replaced by Dellinger’s training system that emphasized lower miles but more intensity and interval training year-round.
—Scott M. Reid, Oc Register, 25 Apr. 2026
Long-interval training requires 15-20 minutes per session.
—Teresa Maalouf, Verywell Health, 17 Apr. 2026
For about five minutes, the two kept passing each other as the man alternated between running and walking, similar to interval training, but Barker still instinctively took out her mace.
—Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 31 Mar. 2026
Fitness adaptation to sprint interval training and continuous running in older adults. .
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Oct. 2025
La Costa’s group fitness classes span everything from yoga, spin, and Pilates to power boxing, high intensity interval training, and cardiovascular boot camp.
—Joe Yogerst, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
Incorporate high intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workout routine, recommends Mason.
—Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 13 July 2025
To maximize fat loss, focus on high-intensity interval training.
—Fred Sassani, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Interval training.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interval%20training. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
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