HIIT’ EM UP

The student recreational center offers a variety of exercise classes from Zumba to powerlifting. One of the classes that focuses on cardio is “HIIT’ EM UP.”
The acronym HIIT stands for high intensity interval training, which focuses on toning the body as well as strengthening the respiratory system. This workout program is taught by Texas A&M Kingsville’s very own track and field athlete Deanna Robinson.
Robinson is a sprinter and senior. While she is not on the track making Javelina Nation proud, she is in the gym helping her peers become healthier.
“My goal in this class is to help everyone that comes through to find the stress release and mood enhancement that comes with fitness and activity, all while becoming a healthier version of themselves – mind and body,” Robinson said.
The class can consist of a variety of different things.
Ashlea Rosenbaum, graduate assistant of Fitness and Wellness, oversees the workout programs.
“[Robinson] has incorporated all the things she’s learned from track workouts from being an athlete to kind of going towards less active people seeing how she can bridge the gap between athletes and just kind of your average-joe type person,” she said.
The workout consists of exercises such as body weight movements, resistance bands, weighted balls and more. The benefits of this class is being able to burn off more calories in a shorter time as opposed to just being on the treadmill. Capacity of the class is 50 people and has a normal attendance of about 10 to 12 people, so there is more than enough room for people to attend the class. Even though the gym can sound intimidating, Robinson strongly insists all will feel welcome in her class.
“All fitness levels are welcomed from complete beginner to advanced. I make sure to demonstrate advanced option and modifications, so everyone can get the most effective workout,” she said.
Briana Flores, an English major, has participated in the class.
“I’ve participated in a HIIT program and it is great for beginners,” she said. “It’s challenging but in a good way.”
Though the class may sound intimidating, Robinson says to come as you are and “keep an opened, determined mind. Warning, it may hurt…a little.”