Thursday, January 20, 2011

Circuit Training 101

Circuit training is one of the most efficient workout routines for many reasons. First off, it is a great form of cardiovascular exercise to those that aren't a big fan of running. Secondly, it is a great form of training to challenge your muscular strength and endurance as well. You can sweat just as much as HITT running !

For those that aren't aware of what circuit training is, basically it is a high intensity aerobic exercise program ranging from 4-5 different body weight exercises to challenge your body within a time frame. The biggest advantages of circuit training is that it is not only effective, but you also don't need any equipments at all ! What I also love about circuit training is the fact that you can combine or modify your exercises to your desire.

Here are a few of my favorite body weight exercises I enjoyed incorporating in my routines.

The Plank
Jumping Jacks
Rock Climbers
Lunges
Burpees
Pushups
Squats
Air Bicycle crunches, Russian twist.



These are just a few types of body weight exercises to name, but there is a lot more to choose from. Now you can modify these exercises to your own fitness level. For example, there are various types of Push up you can do, such as wide grip, narrow grip, Spiderman pushups, T-pushups, and elevated pushups.

Here is a video to demonstrate push up variations











Okay so each circuit training routine should take around 15-20 minutes , consisting of 4-5 different exercises  where each exercise is performed in either a set time ( ie. 15 seconds ) or by repetitions (10-12 reps). You would continue straight on to the next exercise without any rest until they are all completed. After completing all exercises, you should take a 1 minute rest and repeat the routine again. The challenge is to see how many times you can perform the exercises within the time limit. Track your progress, and always challenge yourself in the future to beat your previous score. 

I love variety, so I like to always change up my circuit training routines by modifying it, and finding continuously ways to challenge my body and making it fun. Remember to perform all your exercises in correct form and technique, adjust the exercises to your fitness level, and stay safe and focused !

For more circuit training routines and body weight exercises, check out "Zuzana" on youtube, she has numerous videos and interesting new routines everyday, so you can give that a try as well. Plus shes a hottie =)

6 comments:

  1. I've never done circuit training, but it looks like I'll have to give it a try.

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  2. My friends do circuit training and have slowly gotten me into it...I actually enjoy it

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  3. Nice, wasn't all too aware on circuit training before

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  4. seems like a good workout for beginners cool info mate

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  5. awaiting for updates bro. cant wait to see whats up next

    supporting this blog


    thegoldenchild3.blogspot.com

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