High Intensity Circuit Training Using Body Weight: Maximum Results with Minimal Investment
The following is a synopsis of an article in the American College of Sports Medicine’s “Health & Fitness Journal”.
The ability constraints can be a concern when it comes to getting people to exercise. High-intensity circuit training seems to deliver numerous health benefits (3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, 16, 17) in less time than more traditional programs that are recommended. Furthermore, body weight can be used as resistance, eliminating the need for specialized facilities or equipment.
Exercises are performed for 30 seconds, with 10 seconds of transition time between bouts. Total time for the entire circuit workout is approximately 7 minutes. The circuit can be repeated 2 to 3 times.
- Jumping jacks Total body
- Wall sit Lower body
- Push-up Upper body
- Abdominal crunch Core
- Step-up onto chair Total body
- Squat Lower body
- Triceps dip on chair Upper body
- Plank Core
- High knees/running in place Total body
- Lunge Lower body
- Push-up and rotation Upper body
- Side plank Core
By Brett Klika, C.S.C.S., B.S. and Chris Jordan, M.S., C.S.C.S, NSCA-CPT, ACSM HFS/APT