When it comes to getting fit fast, few training methods match the intensity and effectiveness of Strong High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). These sessions combine strength-building resistance exercises with cardio bursts, torching calories while simultaneously improving muscular endurance and promoting lean muscle growth. If you’re short on time but want results, a 35-minute strong HIIT workout is your answer. In this guide, you’ll find a complete breakdown of how to structure your workout, benefits you’ll gain, and a sample routine you can start today.
Traditional HIIT involves alternating short, intense bursts of cardio with brief recovery periods. Strong HIIT takes that foundation and incorporates resistance training movements, such as squats, presses, and rows, often using dumbbells, kettlebells, or bodyweight.
The result? A full-body workout that burns fat and builds strength simultaneously.
Strong HIIT creates a high caloric afterburn effect, also known as EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption). Your body continues burning calories long after your workout ends.
By incorporating strength-based movements, your body not only gets stronger but develops lean muscle tissue, which boosts metabolism even further.
HIIT forces your body to adapt to high-intensity bursts followed by recovery, training both your heart and muscles to work more efficiently.
With a 35-minute strong HIIT session, you can achieve more than a typical 60-minute steady-state cardio or strength workout.
While many strong HIIT workouts can be done with bodyweight only, here are some helpful tools:
Start with dynamic movements to prepare your muscles and joints:
Each round includes:
End with stretching and breathing exercises:
1. Goblet Squats (45s) – Hold a dumbbell at your chest, perform deep squats
2. Push-Ups (45s) – Drop to knees if needed, keep form tight
3. Jump Squats (30s) – Explosive upward movement, land softly
4. Dumbbell Thrusters (60s) – Squat to overhead press
1. Bent-Over Rows (45s) – Engage lats, hinge at hips
2. Dumbbell Deadlifts (45s) – Keep back flat, weights close to body
3. High Knees (30s) – Pump arms, engage core
4. Renegade Rows (60s) – In plank, row dumbbells one arm at a time
1. Bulgarian Split Squats (Right Leg, 45s)
2. Bulgarian Split Squats (Left Leg, 45s)
3. Jump Lunges (30s) – Or do reverse lunges if high impact isn’t suitable
4. Dumbbell Clean & Press (60s) – Pull weights from floor to overhead
1. Dumbbell Chest Press (45s) – On the floor or bench
2. Glute Bridge March (45s) – Squeeze glutes as you alternate legs
3. Mountain Climbers (30s) – Core tight, quick pace
4. Man Makers (60s) – Complex move: row, push-up, squat, press
1. Plank to Shoulder Tap (45s) – Minimize hip sway
2. Russian Twists with Dumbbell (45s) – Tap floor each side
3. Burpees (30s) – Explosive full-body cardio
4. Squat-Curl-Press Combo (60s) – End with total-body power
Form always comes first, especially when lifting weights quickly. Improper form can lead to injury and reduce efficiency.
Choose weights that challenge you by the final few reps. If you can breeze through a round, it’s time to increase resistance.
Move quickly between exercises. The pace is what keeps your heart rate elevated and the intensity high.
Strong HIIT workouts will make you sweat—hydrate before, during, and after.
Here’s a sample weekly schedule using 35-minute Strong HIIT routines:
Day | Focus |
---|---|
Monday | Full Body Strong HIIT |
Tuesday | Active Recovery (Yoga or Walk) |
Wednesday | Lower Body Strong HIIT |
Thursday | Upper Body + Core HIIT |
Friday | Full Body Power HIIT |
Saturday | Cardio HIIT (Bodyweight) |
Sunday | Rest or Light Mobility Work |
A light carb and protein snack 30-60 minutes before your workout can help you power through. Example: banana with almond butter or Greek yogurt.
After a strong HIIT session, replenish your body with lean protein and healthy carbs to aid recovery. A smoothie with whey protein, berries, and oats works well.
Strong HIIT delivers amazing results—but only if you’re consistent. Combine your workouts with clean eating, sleep, and hydration for maximum benefit.
A 35-minute strong HIIT workout is all it takes to reshape your body, improve endurance, and burn calories long after your workout ends. Whether you train at home or in the gym, this training method delivers maximum results in minimal time.
Ready to get strong, lean, and energized? Grab your dumbbells and timer, and dive into the next 35-minute session—your future self will thank you.
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