What is Circuit Training?
Circuit training is an excellent way to improve mobility, strength and stamina. The circuit training comprises of 6 to 10 strength exercises that are completed one exercise after another. Each exercise is performed for a specified number of repetitions or for a set time before moving on to the next exercise. The exercises within each circuit are separated by a short rest period, and each circuit is separated by a longer rest period. The total number of circuits performed during a training session may vary from two to six depending on your training level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced), your period of training and your training objective.
Circuit training has been traditionally been used as an effective way to develop both strength and cardiovascular fitness simultaneously. Circuit classes are popular in gyms and with non-athletes because of the variety they offer over continuous exercise such as running and cycling. However, circuit training is not a form of exercise per se, but relates to how an exercise session is structured
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| Example of Circuit Training Program |
Circuit training is an evolving training exercise program that was developed by R.E. Morgan and G.T. Anderson in 1953 at the University of Leeds in England. Morgan and Anderson’s original circuit format included 12 stations. Today, this number varies according to the design of the circuit. The program may be performed with exercise machines, hand-held weights, elastic resistance, calisthenics or any combination. A simpler form of the exercise consists of a group running round a gym with a trainer simply calling, for example, "ten push-ups", "ten sit-ups" at intervals.
Studies at Baylor University and The Cooper Institute show that, circuit training is the most time efficient way to enhance cardiovascular fitness and muscle endurance. Studies show that circuit training helps women to achieve their goals and maintain them longer than other forms of exercise or diet.
Advantages of circuit training
Easily structured to provide a whole body workout.
Participants normally work in small groups.
Can be adapted for any size workout area.
Customizable for specificity; easy to adapt to your sport.
Bottom line:
For more advanced exercise enthusiasts, and for people looking to make significant increases in muscle size, circuit training isn’t the best fit. But if you crave structure in your workout and are new to exercising or looking for gains in strength and endurance – then you should give circuit training a try.
