Spring has finally sprung in Chicago, and I’ve been able to finally take my workouts outside. And how great it’s been! I ‘HIIT-up” my new favorite park here in Chicago and am sharing a second high-intensity interval training workout with y’all. The new outdoor spot is the park at Fullerton Harbor. It recently got a face-lift, and the park has incredible views of the Chicago Skyline and also doubles as a great picnic area (perfect for a date!). The huge lawn is also a great spot to complete a HIIT workout, as it’s right next to the Lake Shore Trail Running Path. I have been jogging to the park, which is about a half-mile away from my apartment and a great way to get my resting heart rate up as well as my muscles lose. When I’m at the park, I’ll complete the workout (posted below) and jog another mile to cool down. So that’s been my cardio routine lately, and I’ve been loving the switch-up. It’s been nice incorporating the HIIT, as I just can’t run for an hour straight and actually achieve better results.
One of my favorite pieces and a perfect layer for spring/summer has been lulu lemon’s Rise ‘N Shine Sweat Long Sleeve hoodie. It’s so thin and has breathable fabric for some major ventilation. I probably wouldn’t bother with any other layer for these warmer months, but it’s so light, comfortable, and great for in-transit workouts with those kangaroo pockets. I’m a big fan of kangaroo pockets if you haven’t noticed by now. I’ve paired them with the Rise ‘N Grind Sweat Short. They’re linerless, light, and have an 8″ inseam.. which is my preferred length for an athletic short. As for my base layer on top, I’m rocking the Somatic Short Sleeve tee. II love the subtle vertical stripes and the blue/green that is heathered throughout the piece. It’s basic but has everything you’ll need in an athletic tee: quick-drying, sweat-wicking, and extremely soft. 
Shop the look:
Here’s a secondary HIIT workout I’ve compiled. It’s similar to the HIIT workout I posted last week, with a few additions and adjustments added. Complete the following circuit 4 times resting in 1-minute intervals between each round.
HIIT Workout:
- High Knees (1-min)
- Jumping Jacks (45 reps)
- Squat jumps (1-min)
- Lunge Step-ups (20 on each side)
- Plank (1-min)
- Butt kicks (1-minute)
- Plank Jacks (1-minute)
As I’ve begun to focus on the fitness section of Risky Jackal, let me know your thoughts and what you’d like to see more of in regards to health & fitness. I’d love to know your thoughts on this HIIT workout!
Stay Risky,
– John
Photography by Ali Stone
