The past few weeks we’ve looked at different types of strength training and the equipment that can be used. This week, we’ll take a look at circuit training. Circuit training is designed to help people lose fat and build muscle and it provides good cardiovascular benefits (heart and lung). In an exercise circuit, there are many exercises in a row with only a short amount of time between each exercise.
One main advantage of circuit training is that you don’t have to be very experienced with weight lifting to be able to go through the workouts. You generally just need to get familiar with the equipment to be sure you maintain proper form. Another advantage is that circuit training can be done fairly quickly. One circuit can take less than 15 minutes; it is generally recommended that people complete two or three circuits at a time. In addition, circuit training can be customized to the individual and his/her experience and fitness level by changing weights, repetitions, etc.
One main limitation with circuit training is that, because the machine controls the plane of motion for the exercise, your strength gains are slower. In addition, it is easier to get bored because you are doing the same circuit exercises over and over. Therefore, if you choose to do circuit training, it is important to change up the circuit of exercises to keep seeing more results and for variety.
A sample circuit might look something like this (each activity should last 30 seconds):
Many workout facilities all over the country are designed specifically for this type of training (the most popular chain is Curves for Women). If you are considering trying circuit training, you may want to talk to a fitness instructor or personal trainer in a facility to learn the appropriate form for each exercise. And as with all fitness activities, be sure to talk with your physician before starting a new program.
Rebecca
