I always enjoy working with Livestrong.com to produce quality health and fitness content. My recent project with them was no exception!

When asked to write and produce a photo shoot of HIIT (high intensity interval training) exercises that are safe for the knees, I was immediately challenged. I’m a pilates instructor. Oh, I teach high intensity-style pilates, to be sure, but this was way out of my wheel-house, you guys! So, I reached out to ACE (a personal training certification program) and was thrilled to be connected to ACE certified fitness professional Stephanie Thielen from Kansas, who graciously provided me all the information I needed. When I was able to coordinate working with Heather Dorak, owner of Pilates Platinum, to perform the exercises for me… well I was elated.

Here are some behind the scenes shots from the photo shoot:

HIIT Routine That Won't Hurt the Knees: Behind the Scenes of Photo Shoot

HIIT Routine That Won't Hurt the Knees: Behind the Scenes of Photo Shoot 2

Once I started to see what was involved, I immediately asked if we could shoot video of the routine, because providing one or two photos for some of these moves was going make learning the moves extremely difficult for our online audience. The solution was to shoot the piece as a series of GIFs at the Demand Media studio! You can go through the entire routine here at Livestrong, but below is just a sample of what you’ll find:

Warm-Up: Side-Step Touches

Taking its cues from the classic aerobics move, the side-step touch is a safe way to continue to warm up your muscles and joints for the high-intensity workout to follow. HOW TO DO THEM: Stand with your feet together and arms bent, holding hand weights if you prefer. Engage your core and step your right foot out wide to the right side, then… read the rest at livestrong.com

A HIIT Workout That Won't Hurt the Knees!

Get on over to Livestrong.com to view all of the HIIT Exercises you can do! CLICK HERE.

That said… here’s an example of what NOT to do!


DO AT YOUR OWN RISK: This post is for informational purposes only. Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, or that of your clients, and to independently determine whether to perform, use or adapt any of the information or content in this video. Any exercise program may result in injury. By voluntarily undertaking any exercise displayed on this website, you assume the risk of any resulting injury. Read full disclaimer here.