interval training

American

[in-ter-vuhl trey-ning] / ˈɪn tər vəl ˌtreɪ nɪŋ /

noun

an exercise and training program in which each session consists of periods of intense exertion alternating with periods of rest or lighter exertion.

interval training British

noun

Also called: fartlek. a method of athletic training using alternate sprinting and jogging

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of interval training

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Specifically, interval training enhances blood glucose control, which helps reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

From Science Daily • Oct. 20, 2025

She also leads a program she created that involves nutrition, health and wellness education, running, and high-intensity interval training.

From Slate • Oct. 15, 2024

If you are concerned about blood pressure and are new to fitness, don’t try jumping into high intensity interval training, which causes more rapid fluctuations in your heart rate and blood pressure.

From Seattle Times • May 20, 2024

In Lumin Fitness' darkened studio space in Dallas, Texas, LED screens line the walls from where AI personal trainers guide up to 14 gym goers at a time through personalised workouts or high-intensity interval training.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2024

I do yoga, I do high-intensity interval training, I do circuits.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 4, 2023

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023