The Beauty of Circuit Training

As a personal trainer for women, I often design programs that use circuit training as the primary training technique. While most beginners do not question my opinion on the matter, the more experienced ones do. They want to know why we are exercising in this particular fashion and how it enhances the results we achieve. Here are the answers that I provide to my clients.

What is circuit training?

Circuit training is a method of training which involves an individual completing one set of exercises, then moving onto the next exercise without any rest in between. A full circuit can be as many exercises as time allows, but is usually no more than ten exercises in one session. After performing every exercise for the allotted reps, you have completed one set of the circuit.

What are the advantages of circuit training?

Circuit training provides several different advantages over the average “straight” set training. Here are a few of the advantages:

• Helps develop aerobic endurance thus providing not only a strength building workout but a fat burning one as well.

• Provides a routine that can be adapted into a full body workout.

• It is easily customizable allowing for personalization for any type of sport or injury.

• Takes less time than traditional strength training as not incorporating any rest times.

What type of exercises can be used in a circuit training session?

Nearly any type of exercise is usable in a circuit; however, it is generally preferred to use multiple joint or compound exercises as often as possible. Because you work more muscles using compound exercises, you will be engaging larger portions of muscle thus increasing metabolism and fat burning power. Machines can also be used in circuit training; however, attempt to use only machines that work out large muscles such as the leg press or chest press. Isolated exercises are not a very effective means of keeping an elevated heart rate to ensure proper follow through. Attempt to use exercises such as squats and various lunges to maintain the right flow of exercises.

How many reps should I be doing on each set?

As a general rule, if you are looking to decrease your body fat percent anywhere from 4 – 15%, you should attempt 10 – 15 repetitions for every set you do. If you can get to 13 with no trouble, it is time to increase the intensity by increasing the weight.

Bob likes to write on various topics and has been doing so for more than a few years. His newest site is http://miniflatiron.org which supplies people with information on purchasing a mini hair straightener.

Tagged as: http://www.abswiki.com/the-beauty-of-circuit-training-2204.html