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Circuit training
What is circuit training?What is circuit training good for?
Before you go
Precautions
What to expect during a circuit training session
Hot tip!
Afterwards
What is circuit training?
Circuit training involves working different parts of your body individually at a number of "stations". Circuit training combines resistance training and an aerobic workout, and is usually high intensity.
You spend a short time at each "station" followed by an equally short period of rest before moving to the next station. Once the "circuit" is complete, a sort rest is followed by repeating the process again.
What is circuit training good for?
Circuit training is a flexible and adaptable form of exercise. You can alter and adapt your programme to your fitness level, goals, time schedule and space. Circuit training provides high-intensity training in a short period of time as there is little wasted time between reps.
Circuit training requires no expensive gym equipment and can be performed almost anywhere (circuit training is popular in gyms, parks and even on naval boats and submarines!)
Circuit training is particularly fun when performed as a group activity, as you can receive support and encouragement from your fellow participants.
Before you go
Wear comfortable gym clothes and make sure you have access to plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Make sure you thoroughly warm up before taking part in circuit training.
Precautions
Check with your doctor before starting circuit training if you:
* do not consider yourself to have a medium to high level of fitness
* have not taken part in exercise for some time
* have any existing medical conditions or physical ailments
* are taking any medication
* are (or think you may be) pregnant
Remember that due to the fast-paced nature of circuit training it may be difficult for your instructor to keep a close eye on your progress and techniques. Ensure you are thoroughly briefed before you begin and if you are unsure or uncomfortable at any point stop and speak to your instructor.
What to expect during a circuit training session
A circuit training session usually lasts 60 minutes and can involve up to 12 "stations". You can expect to workout at each station for anything between 15 seconds and two minutes.Your rest period will usually be for the same time frame.
A typical circuit may include:
* bench dips
* press ups
* stomach crunches
* sit ups
* skipping
* short bursts of running/sprinting
* squat thrusts
* jumping jacks
* lunges
Hot tip!
Consider including stretching and flexibility exercises into your circuit to improve overall fitness and help avoid injury.
Afterwards
It is imperative that you take time to cool down after a circuit training session. You must give your muscles the chance to recover to avoid injury. Remember to keep hydrated, even after your workout is over.
See also:
* Fitness and wellbeing classes
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