In the fast paced world we live in, where everyone seems to be struggling to find adequate work-life balance, getting in a good exercise session can be a tremendous feat. More often than not, individuals forgo their fitness routine due to a lack of time and insufficient motivation. However, with the right mindset and an accessible workout plan, such as circuit training, even the least likely individual can succeed in reaching their fitness goals.
Learning the Basics of a Good Circuit Training Routine
Since the 1950s, people have been utilizing circuit training as a successful way to lose weight and stay in shape by combining cardiovascular fitness with strength building exercises. Typically, circuit training programs are composed of a variety, between 9-12, weight lifting stations that target one or more of the major muscle groups and a few aerobic stations that are designed to get your heart pumping and your metabolism kicking into overdrive.
To begin the workout, individuals start at any open station, where they will perform the given exercise for a predetermined amount of time before moving on to the next. Each consecutive station, designed to target a different muscle group, is followed by a short interval of 30-90 seconds, giving individuals just enough time to catch their breath without interrupting the natural cardiovascular progress. By maintaining an elevated heart rate one can not only maximize calorie loss, but individuals can also improve endurance and conditioning.
Circuit training routines cater to a wide variety of people from all fitness levels because individual adjustments can be made at any time throughout the circuit. For those looking to get in a lighter workout, fewer repetitions and less weight are ideal, while those looking for a more intense routine can run through the circuit various times or complete more repetitions at each station. A good instructor will not only know the skill level of the participants, but she or he will also be able to aid each participant with making personalized adjustments to help them reach their fitness goals.
A Host of Benefits from Circuit Training
Regardless of the intensity of the workout, exercisers can expect to receive a host of benefits from making circuit training part of a weekly routine. Not only will they benefit from short term results, such as muscle gain and overall toning, but one can also expect a slew of health benefits, such as weight loss, prolonged endurance and improved cardiovascular health. Circuit training is a great way to stay in shape and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. In as little as 15 minutes a day, individuals can sweat out the stresses of life in a full body workout designed to melt the calories away.
