GetFit: Tackling a Tabata Workout

Recently, my boyfriend visited and introduced me to a workout called “Tabata.” At first, I was a little hesitant to try it because it seemed like the workout wouldn’t be enough without… dare I say it? Cardio! I suffered a minor setback when I learned that the entire workout was just 9 minutes long, but trust me, with a Tabata workout 9 minutes is all you need. If you want to add cardio by the end to keep your heart rate up, you definitely can, but keep in mind that you should be sweating profusely by the end of this workout.

So what exactly is Tabata? Tabata is comprised of 20 seconds of hard work with a 10 second break between sets and then repeating the movement 8 times until you move on to the next exercise. You use a Tabata timer online that will tell you when to start and when to stop for a break. Here’s a great Tabata workout (courtesy of Matt) that works your arms, core, and butt at once! Two words to keep in mind: SPRING BREAK!

* Go to: http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/7jSE66/www.beach-fitness.com/tabata for a great Tabata Clock that will tell you when to begin and rest and how many sets you have left to do.

Workout:

o Push-ups (You can do knee push-ups, just make sure you are keeping your back level and pressing all the way down to the floor).

o Sit-ups (Not Crunches, complete the movement all the way up and back down, squeezing your abs the whole time).

o Leg Flutters (Lie on your back, put your hands underneath your butt to keep stable. Lift your legs about 6 inches off the floor and make quick flutter movements while keeping your legs straight).

o Body Squats (Start with your feet a little wider than shoulder length apart, keep your weight back on your heels, your chest up, and back straight. Bend your knees and lower your body all the way down as far as you can go and then straighten back up).

* You are trying to get as many reps as possible in the 20 seconds that you are doing work. It sounds easy, but really push yourself because it gets tough!

* Just follow the online timer and after 9 minutes of Tabata you’ll feel more energized and ready to focus.

Tabata is perfect for those stressful exam weeks when you know you absolutely won’t have time to get to the gym or go outside for a run. Plus, it’s fun to do with a roomie so you can push each other! In other news, it’s finally Spring Break, so dust off that bikini and show off your smokin’ beach bod!