Tabata is a form of cardio that is short in duration and high intensity. It is a very efficient form of cardio for people that lack time. Tabata is done for a length of 4 minutes. In those 4 minutes you do 8 rounds: 20 seconds of high intensity, 10 seconds of rest. This may not seem like much, but it is one tough workout! You are either doing the same exercise for 4 minutes or a circuit of exercises. And if you are doing it like it is designed, you are putting in maximum effort for all 4 of those minutes. By the end you are toast!
So what are some examples of Tabata workouts?
Example 1
- Mountain Climbers – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- Burpees – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- Plyometric Lunges – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- Speed Skaters – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
REPEAT
Example 2
- Jump Rope – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- Jumping Jacks – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- High Knees – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
- Toe Taps – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
REPEAT
Example 3
- Squats – 20 seconds fast, 10 seconds rest
REPEAT 8X
So, how do you know if this type of cardio is right for you? When we work together we will come up with a ‘recipe’ for you fitness goal! Tabata is a great form of cardio, but should not be done every day. It should be incorporated into a well thought out workout plan! Are you ready to turn up the ‘intensity’ on your current workouts? Email me and let’s create a plan!
*Have you ever done Tabata before?
*What is your favorite form of short/intense cardio?
