The endocrine system oversees the production of hormones by individual glands; each of which produces its own specific hormone to carry out a specific function.  Weight, hunger, mood, sex drive, and sleep are just a handful of examples of the systems that are affected by endocrine health.

Poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and genetics, glands can become under or over performers, and either produce too much, or too little, hormones can cause a variety of health issues. One of the best ways to combat hormonal imbalances is through high-intensity interval training or HIIT. (Isn’t exercise always the answer? LOL) HIIT workouts are defined as a quick burst of intense exercise with a short period of recovery or rest between sets. Research suggests that moderately intense exercise can increase the release of hormones to the ideal level while being an effective way to burn fat and increase muscle mass. Win-win!  Check out one of Beachbody's hugely popular HIIT program, TurboFire, HERE.

There are a few hormones that are especially affected by high-intensity exercise like insulin - regulates how fat and carbohydrates are metabolized, cortisol - another fat metabolizer, testosterone - responsible for muscle growth and repair, and human growth hormone - assists with muscle growth, bone mineralization, and support of the immune system.

It’s important that HIIT workouts are short to avoid producing an excessive release of hormones. In most cases, a session lasting 30-45 minutes is sufficient. BEACH BODY has been ahead of the game for a while now!!  YAY!  A good way to gauge this is to note how you feel after working out. If you feel refreshed and recharged, you’re on the right track. On the flip side, if you’re exhausted and have no energy left to carry out the tasks of your day, it’s likely you’re overdoing it or suffering from an imbalance.

Additionally, make sure that you are allowing for adequate rest between your workouts to boost your results. Active recovery days that include walking or yoga are great for keeping hormones happy. Those often can get overlooked (I'm guilty of this myself!)