Interval Training is basically short bursts of all out training with brief rest periods between each all out effort. It basically elevates the heart rate quickly for a period of time and then allows it to drop and recover briefly before the next round. This not only will improve your cardiovascular system and it's ability to recover from stress on the body, but will continue burning calories after the workout. This after burn affect is known as EPOC... I will cover that topic in another blog!
Generally, depending on the exercises I set up, I will do 30 seconds on and 30 seconds off. For instance, today I trained a couple and we did an Interval Training workout. They had six exercises which included;
Kettlebell Swing
Medicine Ball Floor Slam
Bicycle Crunch
Jumping Jacks
Mountain Climbers
Battling Rope Double Waves
They performed 30 seconds of all out effort on each exercise. They then rested for 30 seconds and then moved on to the next exercise for another intense, all out 30 second round of effort. They completed four rounds of the six above exercises. This is an intense workout which should be preceded with a warm up period such as walking on a treadmill or 5 minutes on an airdyne bike.
*Check out my Instagram at.. https://www.instagram.com/joshuafitness/ for videos and pictures of John and Kate's Interval Training workout today. Follow me on Instagram for exercise videos, pictures and other fitness related information.
**Consult your physician before attempting this or any other fitness program to ensure you are in good health and able to complete strenuous activity. Contact myself or a Certified Personal Trainer for a demonstration and to ensure your form is correct.