Circuit Training
A comparatively new fitness area, circuit training appeared in the mid 1950's, with new varieties, such as Boxercise and Body Pump, coming on the scene since. Circuit Training (or Circuits) is a great way to build your cardio fitness.
The aim of Circuit Training is to build a progressive development of the muscular respiratory systems (circuit training exercises achieve all round fitness by their nature). Throughout this type of training participants are treated as individuals and not a mass, pushing themselves to their own limits with minimum direction from the instructor.
It must be stressed that if the effects on the cardiovascular systems of the body are to be improved, then it will require considerable application in both its administration and its execution, with correct exercise performance throughout. This is when you can find personal trainers to help you get it right - a great way to ensure you start the right way.
Circuit training improves all round physical fitness, as opposed to fitness for a specific sport. A sportsman training for his activity therefore would be foolish to depend entirely on circuit training. However, skill related circuits can easily be implemented into your sessions.
It must be recognized that only through work (assuming adequate rest and nutrition are taken) can a muscular and respiratory system be improved on. Endurance training for which circuit training is a firm base to work from, must be regular and sustained over a long period.
Starting at a low level, appertaining from the standard of the class or individual, intensity should be gradually increased, with a progressive load being placed on the cardiovascular system.
KEY POINTS WHEN PLANNING A CIRCUIT
- Their standard of fitness, especially whilst performing your warm-up
- Numbers of men/women that you are going to take. (Make sure you have enough circuits)
- What do you require the circuit for, the aims of those taking part
- Amount of time available, normally 45 - 60 minutes
- Space and equipment that is available
- Motivational music, and suitable sound system
- Clear easy to follow circuit cards
Providing some a great all round workout, you can also look at circuit training and exercise training.
Check the following pages for training 'Aims', 'Circuit Layouts', 'Beginners' and 'Training Variations' :
