Further Defining High-Intensity, Multimodal Exercises, and Functional Training as Part of the Working Definition for High-Intensity Functional Training

Abstract

A working definition of High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) has been provided stating that, “[HIFT] is a training style (or program) that incorporates functional, multimodal movements, performed at a relatively high intensity, and designed to improve parameters of general physical fitness and performance” [1]. This working definition has initiated a starting point to more clearly describe this new exercise training program and has provided a platform for those in the field to build upon. However, this definition leaves much room for questions and interpretation. For instance, what is “relatively high-intensity”? Multimodal has been used in the description of aerobic training as well as improving golf performance and requires further clarification as it relates to HIFT [2,3]. Lastly, functional training and functional exercise or movements have been used within the literature with no clear definition or distinction between functional training and functional exercises [4,5]. Therefore, it is important to further support the working definition by quantifying HIFT intensity as well as provide perspectives on the use of the terms multimodal and functional as they relate to training and exercise.