15 Minute Workout: A Quick HIIT

This past weekend was a hot one in Ontario.  I hope you all managed to stay cool.

As the weather continues to get warmer, it often becomes easier to use the it-is-too-hot-to-workout excuse.

While it is very true that you should avoid strenuous activity outdoors during peak hours (approx. 11am -4pm), that doesn't mean that you have to forgo the workout altogether.

This HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) routine is so quick, you will be done in the same amount of time it would take to think about another excuse not to do it.  For more about HIIT, check out this link!

The best part is that you don't need any equipment and it can be done anywhere.  Get ready to get your sweat on!

As always, check with your doctor before you begin an exercise program.

Move of the Month: Burpees

 Ah, burpees.  We love to hate them.

They are tough, but we do them because we know that they are a fantastic full body exercise.  A staple move in any circuit or interval class, burpees are a great way to challenge your muscles and get your heart pumping.

They fit perfectly into this 30 minute workout or you could include them in your tabata drills.  Here is a step-by-step description of the exercise, including some modifications for all levels.

The Burpee

Try Something New: Tabata Drills

You may have noticed something new in the sidebar. -------->

Many of you have been asking about my weekly workouts (I have gotten seriously slack at posting, thanks for the gentle reminders :), so I decided to put it here so you don't have to dig through the posts to find it.

Speaking for workouts, I have been looking for ways to mix up my own exercise regime and I am going to take my own advice.  Every week I will be changing one day of my workout by trying something I have never done before, which will be highlighted in the sidebar.

Pretty exciting, eh?  (There is the Canadian in me coming out :).

 

The 30 Minute Workout: Interval Training

The title of this post made me think of the 20 Minute Workout. 

It was a Canadian exercise program, which featured women doing their thing in slinky leotards on a rotating platform.  If you haven't had the pleasure, then you need to check out this video.



Well, you won't have to wear leg warmers or spin around in a circle to do this workout (unless you want to ;).  The only thing they have in common is that they are both fast.

I am all about exercising more efficiently.  You can get more done in a shorter amount of time if you amp up your intensity.

This is what I like to call my "no excuses workout".  If you have a half an hour to watch TV, you have time for this workout.

The routine consists of three circuits with 1-2 minutes of rest between each circuit.

Remember to drink water (go for sips instead of gulps), take a break when you need it and consult with your doctor before you start any exercise program.
 

The 30 Minute Workout

Equipment Needed:
Resistance Band
Step Platform or Workout Bench
Stop watch or clock with a second hand

Recommended Music
Make It Pop, Best of 2010

Each exercise is performed for 1 minute w/o rest.

Warm Up
5 minutes (Walk, knee lifts, even on a stationary piece of cardio equipment)

Circuit #1
Squat Jumps
Plie Squats
Front Raise
Bent Over Row

Rest 1-2 minutes

Circuit # 2
Burpees
Chest Press
Bench Dips
Active V Sit

Rest 1-2 minutes

Circuit # 3
Mountain Climbers
Bicep Curls
Lunges
Calf Raises

Rest 1-2 minutes

Floor Work
Cris Cross
Supermans

Stretch

Give this workout a try and let me know what you think!

What is your favourite way to workout in 30 minutes?

Stay Healthy,
Tracy