Tabata – the fitness craze explained

If you follow this blog then you’ll know that at Tighten Up we’re proponents of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Now, Tabata is a type of HIIT that we also use with our clients. Why? The results are nothing less than fabulous!

What exactly is Tabata?

Tabata is nothing new. It was developed in the 1970’s by Dr Izumi Tabata, a Japanese researcher and physician. His aim was to develop a more effective training method for Japanese Olympic athletes. At the time, he was the Head Coach of Japan’s speed skating team.

Despite being invented in the 70’s, Tabata has only made an appearance on the international fitness scene relatively recently. The idea behind it is very simple…

One ‘Tabata’ lasts for a mere four minutes. How can four minutes be effective? The key lies in the intensity. For example… You do a 20 second burst of intense cardio activity, followed by a 10 second rest. This is then repeated seven more times.

Any cardio exercise is suitable: running, jumping rope, cycling, etc. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be traditional cardio exercises. Whatever you choose, you have to give it your all. 100% intensity and nothing less.

Adding Tabata to your workouts will help you shed more body fat than ever before

In fact, there’s quite a list of benefits:

• You can get better results in less time.
• You aerobic and anaerobic fitness levels will increase.
• These workouts can be used to improve cardiovascular fitness, weight training, and core strength.
• This type of training will increase your metabolism.
• You will continue to burn fat after your workout.
• This exercise regime is flexible. All types of equipment and exercises can be used.
• Endurance levels are improved over time.
• Your body’s tolerance of lactic acid becomes far better.
• Your body will develop a much higher threshold.

Sounds good, right? It is! Make sure to contact us at Tighten Up if you want to experience this incredible fitness regime. Remember that all high intensity work can increase your chance of injuries, so it’s best to work under the supervision of a professional personal trainer.