A workout that is similar to the one we covered in our last blog in the group classes series, HIIT, circuit training involves a series of workouts being given to you by an instructor.
There are some differences though when it comes to circuit training and HIIT.
While HIIT requires you to always be working at a high intensity, circuit training doesn’t always require that. The main difference between these two types of classes is the way they are structured. As the name suggests, circuit classes are arranged in a circuit which generally consist of between 5 to 10 stations.
During the workout you will visit each station and perform that exercise for a set amount of time (this can vary from 30 seconds to maybe a few minutes). After you have completed that station you will get a short rest before being ushered to the next station. The route to each station will be predetermined and set out by the exercise instructor.
As circuit training doesn’t always have to be done at a high intensity a more varied array of gym equipment can be utilised.
This doesn’t mean it’s easier though!
What is Circuit Training?
Circuit training is a tough class to attend.
You will find yourself in a room or hall surrounded by gym equipment which will all be used throughout the lesson.
The aim of circuit training is to provide a workout for various muscle groups, so you may find on one station you are performing bicep curls, while on the next one you are doing sit-ups or a leg-press.
Each station will be visited several times throughout the class, providing you with a great overall workout for your body.
What Exercises are Involved in Circuit Training?
There are many exercises that can be involved in circuit training classes, and these usually include muscle workouts such as bench dips, press-ups, pull-ups, barbell squats and sit-ups, followed by some cardio exercises such as skipping, mountain climbers and jumping jacks.
As you enter the class, you will be put into a group of two, maybe three people. These will be your workout buddies and you will stick together throughout the class as you move from station to station.
As mentioned earlier, some of the exercises may involve using some gym equipment or free weights, and some stations may just consist of a mat on which you will perform the exercise.
No matter what you are doing, there will be one or more trainers who are in control of the class, providing instructions on how best to perform each workout as well as offering any advice, to really make sure you make the most of your exercise.
The Benefits of Circuit Training
Circuit training has lots of benefits, including these three:
A Whole Body Workout
Circuit training is a quick (around 45 minutes) exercise that has benefits on the whole of your body.
There aren’t many workouts where most muscles are being activated, so being able to fit a circuit training class into your routine two or three times a week is a great way of making sure you aren’t skipping any muscles throughout your fitness journey.
From your legs, to your arms, and your core, every part of your body is pushed in circuit training through a tailored range of exercises, making it ideal for people who can’t regularly get to the gym.
Enhance Your Endurance
Muscle endurance is how well your muscles react when under prolonged pressure.
Circuit training provides a big boost to this as your muscles are constantly in use throughout the class. If you perform a bicep workout, within ten or fifteen minutes you will be back at the station ready to perform the exercise again, which over time will provide your muscles with the ability to perform under pressure for longer.
Accessible to Everyone
No matter your level of fitness and strength, there is a circuit training class accessible for you.
If you are part of a class but you’re struggling, it is easy to adjust some of the workouts to suit you better. For example, if you’re at a press-up station and you’re finding it hard, drop down into a kneeling push up to make things easier.
A circuit training class is there to push you, but not push you over the edge, so speak to the instructor and see how you can adjust the workouts to fit your level.
And keep an eye on the different classes available. Do your research and find the the perfect circuit training class for you in the list of classes available at your local gym.
Want to go to Bootcamp?
But what if you want to really push yourself?
Then maybe it’s time to go to a bootcamp class.
These are like circuit training classes, but often consist of stricter and more intense workouts.
A bootcamp class isn’t made to be nice, but it will have maximum effect in terms of getting you fit.
Reps and weights are often increased and there is less room for adjustment, but if you really want to push yourself by working your way around a circuit filled with tough, muscle-building exercises that are sure to get you burning calories and increasing strength, then this is the one for you.
Want to know more about bootcamp? Then check out our guide to bootcamp classes here.
Northwood Circuit Training for You
If you like what you’ve read and you’re based around the Ruislip, Eastcote and Harrow areas, then why not pay a visit to our gym in Northwood?
With a wide range of classes available and a team of professionals who are trained in providing the perfect all-round workout, we’re sure to have the perfect group for you to join.
From an outdoors bootcamp to circuit training in the gym, find your new favourite class with us.
Want to know more? Then get in touch today!
And for more information on the different group exercise classes we can offer you, why not visit our yoga, spinning, Pilates and HIIT guides?
