Headaches after doing HIIT

[Maestro Monk]

I often get head painand light-headedness 10-15 mins after doing my High Intensity Workouts. The issue here is that I never get this after doing slightly less-intense, continuous cardio for longer durations.

For some background info, my body fat is around 10%, and I'm doing cardio 2-3 times/week - one HI step climbing workout, and two 5 km runs, all on separate days. I am also strength training 3-4 times per week.

For my HI workout, I sprint up 100 steps and walk down, repeating 10 times. (lasts ~20 mins). My walking back down recovery time is usually about 1 minute.
I'm consuming my day's worth of simple carbs (in the form of a fruit milkshake) before and after each session, so the headaches are not likely from low blood sugar levels.

I'm thinking perhaps I'm pushing myself too hard, since I'm usually gasping for air by the end of each interval. Was hoping you knowledgable fellas could offer some insight.

Happy Training..

 

[Warboss Alex]

I think it's just a case of pushing yourself too hard. Try 6 intervals instead of 10, if you don't get a headache it means you're just doing a bit too much..

These things have been called Exercised Induced Headaches (whether this is an official term or not I don't know, I've seen it quoted a few places), which can also be a result of heavy SQUATTING (at least, that's when I get 'em).

Dunno about milk pre- and post-workout though, I doubt my stomach could take it.. if yours does then fair play to you.

 

[Gus]

It's usually from lack of oxygen to the brain. Make sure you lean over when your body tells you to...it does that because you aren't getting enough blood to your brain.

As you get in shape your body should handle oxygen deprivation better, though, so it'll probably go away after a couple weeks.

 

[Create Reality]

IMPORTANT. Make sure you are warming up properly.