Why is Circuit Fitness Training so physically beneficial?

 

First, lets start out by literally defining circuit fitness training: “Circuit fitness training is a form of body conditioning or resistance training using high-intensity aerobics. It targets strength building and muscular endurance. An exercise ‘circuit’ is one completion of all prescribed exercises in the program. When one circuit is complete, one begins the first exercise again for the next circuit. Traditionally, the time between exercises in circuit training is short, often with rapid movement to the next exercise.” Sounds simple enough, right? It really is just that simple.

Let's dispel some basic myths and provide some truths associated with circuit fitness training:

  • Myth: A person has to be an extreme athlete and/or health and fitness expert to do circuit fitness training.

    • Truth: Circuit fitness training programs vary to fit each individual's fitness levels and needs so that people of all fitness levels can work together. If you have a partner that you’d like to workout with but feel like you couldn’t keep up, design your fitness training so that you each complete each ‘prescribed’ exercise throughout your circuit fitness training session at your own personal pace and ability level. While you may not be performing the same circuit exercise at the same endurance level, you are completing a circuit together. Group circuit fitness training (typically 2 or more) can also mitigate overall personal training costs as group training sessions are typically charged at a discount compared to individual sessions. Group Circuit Fitness Training

  • Myth: Circuit fitness training causes the person to bulk up far beyond just toning muscles because they are lifting heavier weights.

    • Truth: People who lift heavier weights in circuit fitness training typically do so in shorter duration and less reps. This puts that person in the same category as a person who lifts much lighter weights for longer durations and more reps. Just as you’ve been educated that a person who walks 1 mile burns the same calories as a person who runs that very same mile. Not all the benefits are the same of course but I think you’re starting to understand. Bulk Versus Tone

  • Myth: Circuit fitness training doesn’t provide a good cardiovascular workout because you are stopping and restarting constantly.

    • Truth: You are or should be moving very quickly between each circuit with no rest or very little rest between each circuit. This does keep your heart rate elevated and sustained above a resting heart rate level during your workout. If done properly, circuit fitness training could eliminate or at the very least mitigate the need for a separate cardio workout. Cardiovascular Benefits

Figure out what ‘right’ looks like to you. Consult your Personal Fitness Training Expert today and design a fitness training program that fits YOUR fitness level! Remember: “The principle is competing against yourself. It’s about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before.” ~Steve Young

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