For those of you who don't yet know (or can't remember because it was so long ago), Tabata is circuit/strength training done in 4 minute blocks. Each set is 30 seconds in length, 20 seconds of intense exercise and 10 seconds of rest. Each exercise is repeated 8
Each exercise is meant to engage the major muscle groups (lower body, upper body and core) so they might include combined weighted bicep curls with squats or lunges. Other sequences can include pushups, situps, burpees or sprinting on the spot. And believe me, 20 seconds might seem short now but by rep 6 you'll be anxious to just get it over with.
The interval training involved in Tabata is said to significantly increase both aerobic and anaerobic fitness as well as increase fat loss and muscle endurance. All definite reasons to grin and bear it if you ask me but hey, I'm no expert so go ahead and read more about it here. And while you do that I'll be over here cringing. Did I mention that I got my butt kicked??
So tell me, have you heard of Tabata? Have you ever tried interval training?
I do Tabata sometimes and I introduced my fiance to it (using a kettlebell) because he wants to stay in shape somewhat, but doesn't have a lot of time or energy with his job. I do lots and lots of interval training, mostly in the form of sprints :D
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of Tabata, but I'm very intrigued. I do Insanity, which is all based on intense interval training and pretty much has transformed me inside and out.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of Tabata but it sounds awesome!! (in a really intense, great workout sort of way). Did you take a class with it or do you design your own workout?
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of it! But...I'm not savvy with fitness trends either. I do a circuit interval class at my gym and we do sprints at the end. It's KILLER. Just make sure you warm up 5 or 10 min on the treadmill before or else you could pull your hamstring. I learned that the hard way and it took me forever to fully recover!
ReplyDeletenever heard of tabata, but I'm always interested in new interval workouts! thats why I like Jillian's 30 day shred for a quick workout :)
ReplyDeleteI have tried tabata a few times, but I feel like I am totally wimping out after the 5th set that I wonder if I am truly getting the benefit, you know?
ReplyDeleteIts tough though!
I love tabata. 4 minutes seems like such a short time until I'm doing burpees and dying by round 5. My favorite tabatas are walking lunges, squat jumps, and low plank to high plank.
ReplyDeleteWould love to hear what your favorites are!