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Think HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) only works on the treadmill or bike? Think again. If your routine feels stale, it might be time to get creative with how—and where—you HIIT.

And you’re not alone in making the switch—HIIT continues to dominate the fitness world. It ranked among the top 5 global trends in the American College of Sports Medicine’s 2024 Worldwide Fitness Survey, and the Mayo Clinic calls it one of the most efficient, effective workouts for cardiovascular health and weight management. The best part? You don’t have to sprint to get the benefits.

The beauty of HIIT is in its flexibility. Short bursts of all-out effort followed by rest can be applied to almost any piece of equipment. That means those machines you usually walk right past at The HUB might be your new secret weapon.

Here are four unconventional machines (plus one bonus tool) perfect for high-powered HIIT sessions—and why they deserve a spot in your rotation.

 

  1. StairMaster — The OG Leg Burner
     Sure, it looks old-school, but the StairMaster is making a serious comeback. Why? It builds lower body strength and torches calories—especially when you crank the speed in intervals.

Try this: 30 seconds at level 12, 60 seconds recovery at level 5. Repeat for 15–20 minutes. Your glutes will thank you (eventually).

 

  1. Rowing Machine — Total Body HIIT Hero
     Rowing combines strength and cardio in one fluid motion. It works over 80% of your muscles—legs, back, arms, and core.


 Quick Circuit:

  • 250m row sprint

  • 1-minute slow recovery
     Repeat 6–10 rounds. Focus on power, not just speed.

 

  1. Elliptical — The Sneaky Sweat Machine
     It may look like a low-key cardio option, but when you use the manual settings to spike the resistance and crank the incline, the elliptical becomes a legit HIIT tool.


 Sample set: 1 minute high resistance (level 12–15), 1 minute light recovery pace. Alternate for 15–20 minutes and feel the full-body burn—without pounding your joints.

 

  1. Battle Ropes — Off-the-Machine, All-the-Burn
     They’re not technically a “machine,” but battle ropes are perfect for quick HIIT blasts. Slam, whip, wave—however you move them, you’re firing the core, shoulders, and heart rate.


 Mini Circuit:

  • 20 seconds alternating waves

  • 20 seconds double slams

  • 20 seconds rest
     Repeat 5–6 times.

 

Why You’ll Love It:

  • ⏱️ Time-saving: Just 15–20 minutes is enough

  • 💥 High intensity, low boredom

  • 🧠 Mentally engaging: Every machine feels different

  • 🔁 Infinite variety: You can mix and match machines for a full-body HIIT circuit

 

Need Help Getting Started?

Our certified personal trainers specialize in creative, efficient workouts tailored to you. Whether you’re new to HIIT or looking to level up your routine, we’ll build a plan that fits your goals, schedule, and style.

 

👉 Book a FREE consultation at the front desk or by emailing Fitness@TheHubMarion.com today!

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