[Riggy]

I've noticed at the gym more and more people are getting into doing the circuit training. On the second floor there is a large equipment workout area set up right next to the running track. The machines are lined up side by side according to muscle groups. This equipment placement allows for easy access from the track. People run a lap or two and then jump on the first machine, do a quick set, then jump on the track again for another lap, and then exit the track and go to the next machine....etc. I haven't done this yet. It's being advertised as getting a full body workout in less than 1/2 hour. Have any of you done this before?

Riggy

[Danielle]

Years ago when I hung out at the YMCA, they had a similar set-up. I asked around about it and the common answer I got was it was more or less for endurance training. I tried it back then, and it definitely got my heart rate going. I wonder how that kind of training affects the joints? I don't know if I'd like the stress of that workout now. Like, when I weight train I prefer to be in that 'mental zone' or whatever, not feeling rushed.

[triumph]

Circuit training is something I love to do, especially when I am getting back into working out after a break. It alllows me to get a decent workout with a lower time committment. Plus it can have some decent side benefits.

I will mix it up once in a while with regular workouts, and really push myself with only very short rests between sets and exercises.

[Riggy]

Hi Danielle,

Thanks for your input regarding your circuit training experience. I can certainly appreciate the part of not wanting to be rushed during your workouts. You raised a good point about how this type of training in particular would affect joints....I hadn't really considered that aspect until now.

Thanks again,
Riggy

[Riggy]

Thanks for your input Triumph.

It sounds like you have had some good experience with the circuit training too. You undoubtedly have more stamina than I do, but I would like to work up to the point that I could do some full circuit training eventually. I am usually somewhat methodical about my training and like Danielle, I usually prefer not to be rushed; however, I must say that I am interested in being to get results from exercising at the gym for just a half hour.

Have you noticed any problems with your joints while doing this type of training?

Thanks!
Riggy

[movni]

For me, my elbows would ach a little. Otherewise nothing really to concern myself with.

[triumph]

Originally Posted by Riggy

Thanks for your input Triumph.

It sounds like you have had some good experience with the circuit training too. You undoubtedly have more stamina than I do, but I would like to work up to the point that I could do some full circuit training eventually. I am usually somewhat methodical about my training and like Danielle, I usually prefer not to be rushed; however, I must say that I am interested in being to get results from exercising at the gym for just a half hour.

Have you noticed any problems with your joints while doing this type of training?

Thanks!
Riggy

Not really. One suggestion, though, is when doing this, I normally go for higher reps and lower weights. I am not trying to push myself to singular muscle fatigue on any exercise but shooting for a complete fatigue when I am done.

[Danielle]

movni and triumph, what kind of results have you gotten with circuit training? If either of you have done this kind of training exclusively, have you built muscle doing this?

[movni]

What I've gotten as a result from this is a leaner body. Like he mentioned above I go for less weight and more reps.

[Danielle]

Leaner body, huh? Well, that's all the motivation I need to give this higher rep/lower weight thing a try.