By Mace Laith
Why Starting Strong Matters
Beginning a new workout programme can feel daunting, especially when it is as intense as fitness hiit training. For many in Singapore, the first step into a Les Mills GRIT HIIT class is filled with excitement but also questions. What should you expect? How do you prepare? And how do you ensure the best possible results without injury or burnout?
Les Mills GRIT HIIT, available at True Fitness, is a 30-minute, high-intensity interval training session that combines athletic moves, strength drills, and cardio bursts. It is scientifically designed to deliver maximum benefits in minimal time, making it ideal for Singaporeans with busy schedules. Understanding how to approach your first class will set you up for success and build confidence for the journey ahead.
What Is Les Mills GRIT HIIT?
Les Mills GRIT is a structured HIIT programme that comes in three main formats:
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GRIT Cardio: Focused on explosive bodyweight movements to burn calories and improve endurance.
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GRIT Strength: Uses barbells, plates, and resistance to build lean muscle while burning fat.
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GRIT Athletic: Improves agility, coordination, and speed with multidirectional drills.
All three formats share a common thread — short intervals of maximum effort alternated with recovery. The sessions are choreographed to high-energy music and led by certified instructors, ensuring that every participant works at their optimal level while maintaining proper form.
Why GRIT HIIT Appeals to Singaporeans
The Singapore lifestyle often involves long hours at work, long commutes, and family responsibilities. Many residents cite time as the number one reason for not exercising. A GRIT HIIT class solves this problem by delivering a complete workout in 30 minutes.
Key reasons why beginners in Singapore are drawn to GRIT include:
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Time efficiency: Sessions can be done during lunch breaks or after work.
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Structured guidance: Instructors lead participants through every move, reducing guesswork.
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Community energy: Group settings keep motivation levels high.
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Variety: Cardio, strength, and athletic formats ensure no two weeks feel the same.
This makes it an excellent entry point for anyone new to HIIT.
Preparing for Your First Class
Preparation is key to enjoying and succeeding in your first Les Mills GRIT HIIT experience.
1. What to Wear
Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows free movement. Moisture-wicking fabrics help keep you comfortable. Supportive footwear is essential to handle quick changes in direction and impact-heavy moves.
2. What to Bring
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A water bottle to stay hydrated.
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A towel for sweat management.
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Optional: fitness tracker or heart rate monitor to measure intensity.
3. Mindset
Go in with the mindset that it is okay to pace yourself. The intensity is high, but modifications are available, and instructors encourage you to listen to your body.
What to Expect in the Class
Stepping into your first session can be intimidating, but knowing what to expect removes much of the uncertainty.
Warm-Up
The class starts with a 5-minute warm-up that includes light cardio and dynamic stretches. This prepares your muscles and joints for the intensity ahead.
Main Workout
The core of the session lasts around 20 minutes and is broken into intervals. For example, you may perform 40 seconds of squat jumps, rest for 20 seconds, then move straight into burpees or push presses. Expect explosive moves, heavy breathing, and lots of sweat.
Cool-Down
The final 5 minutes involve stretches and mobility exercises to aid recovery and prevent stiffness.
The format is straightforward, but the energy, music, and instructor coaching elevate the experience.
Common First-Timer Concerns
“Am I fit enough to start?”
Yes. Les Mills GRIT is scalable. Instructors provide options for beginners, such as smaller jumps, lighter weights, or reduced intensity. The aim is progression, not perfection on day one.
“What if I cannot keep up?”
You are not expected to perform every move at maximum effort immediately. Take breaks if needed and jump back in when ready. With consistency, stamina builds quickly.
“Will I be sore after the class?”
Most likely, yes. Muscle soreness, especially after your first session, is normal. This indicates your muscles are adapting. Stretching, hydration, and sleep will help recovery.
Practical Tips for Success
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Arrive early: Get familiar with the equipment and speak to the instructor about being a first-timer.
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Stay hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after class.
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Focus on form: Quality movement is better than rushing through repetitions.
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Progress gradually: Start with lighter weights in GRIT Strength and increase only when you feel ready.
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Listen to your body: Push yourself but avoid ignoring signs of pain or extreme fatigue.
These tips help you build a sustainable fitness foundation.
Post-Class Recovery
Recovery is as important as the workout itself. After a GRIT class, your body needs time to rebuild and adapt.
Stretching
Spend a few extra minutes stretching hamstrings, calves, shoulders, and hips to reduce tightness.
Nutrition
Refuel with protein and carbohydrates within 30 to 60 minutes. Options include chicken with rice, a smoothie, or eggs on wholegrain toast.
Rest
Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep to allow full recovery. Over time, your body adapts, and post-class soreness reduces.
By paying attention to recovery, you set yourself up for consistent improvement.
Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
Many newcomers make errors that can slow progress or increase risk of injury:
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Skipping warm-up and cool-down: These phases are vital for safety.
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Overtraining: Doing GRIT every day leads to fatigue. Two to three classes a week is sufficient.
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Poor footwear: Inadequate shoes may cause joint stress.
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Neglecting rest days: Muscles grow and repair during recovery, not during workouts.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures steady progress and reduces the risk of burnout.
The Role of True Fitness in Supporting Beginners
True Fitness has played a pivotal role in bringing Les Mills GRIT HIIT to Singapore. With certified instructors, safe facilities, and an encouraging community, it provides the perfect environment for beginners.
For those starting their journey, True Fitness offers not just classes but also the reassurance of expert coaching, ensuring first-timers develop confidence and achieve results.
FAQs on Starting Les Mills GRIT HIIT in Singapore
Q1. How often should beginners attend GRIT HIIT classes?
Two sessions per week are ideal for starting out. This allows your body to adapt while avoiding excessive fatigue.
Q2. Can I combine GRIT HIIT with other forms of exercise?
Yes. Many pair GRIT with yoga, strength training, or steady-state cardio to achieve balanced fitness.
Q3. What should I eat before class?
A light meal with protein and carbohydrates, such as yoghurt with fruit or a banana with peanut butter, provides energy without discomfort.
Q4. Is GRIT HIIT suitable for people with no prior gym experience?
Yes. Instructors provide beginner-friendly modifications, and the supportive class environment encourages all levels.
Q5. How quickly will I see results?
Most beginners notice improved stamina and energy within three to four weeks. Visible changes in muscle tone and fat loss typically appear after six to eight weeks of consistent attendance.
Q6. Can GRIT HIIT help with stress relief?
Absolutely. The high-energy format and endorphin release during workouts make it an excellent outlet for stress, especially for Singapore’s busy professionals.
Q7. Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No. Equipment such as barbells, plates, or steps is provided in the class. At home, modifications can be made using bodyweight only.
