
The Science of Sweat: Decoding HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)
From The Living Life Well Show by Jon Skelton, MD
April 25, 2026 · 20 min
About this episode
Dr. Jon Skelton discusses the science behind HIIT training and how to optimize workouts using personal data and heart rate monitoring.
The Science of Sweat: Decoding HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) Is your workout actually working? In this episode, Dr. Jhn Skelton breaks down the evidence-based framework for home-based HIIT training — combining smartwatch data with your body's own signals to help you train smarter, not just harder. What You'll Learn: What HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) is and why it outperforms steady-state cardio for most goals How to calculate your personal target heart rate zones using the Karvonen (Heart Rate Reserve) Method The truth about Apple Watch accuracy during HIIT — what it does well and where it fails How to use the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale to train by feel The 3 HIIT interval models (short, medium, long) and which is right for your fitness level Optimal work-to-rest ratios for running, swimming, and resistance/body weight training Why short bursts of intense activity can reduce cardiovascular mortality risk by up to 47% How to build a sustainable, injury-free HIIT routine Key Takeaways: Your heart rate zones are unique to YOU — base your training on where you are today Pair your smartwatch data with RPE for the most accurate self-assessment…
People in this episode
Host: Jon Skelton
Topics covered
- HIIT
- fitness
- heart rate training
- exercise
- health
Keywords
- HIIT
- High Intensity Interval Training
- heart rate zones
- RPE scale
- exercise assessment
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Apple Watch, ACSM, ESSA
Products: Polar H10 Chest Strap
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