So, it turns out I’m kind of into the whole tabata thing. You know, those quick and very dirty workouts that make you feel like you’re going to die??? Yeah, love ‘em.
For those of you not in the know, tabatas are a type of interval workout that involve doing an exercise for 20 seconds with 10 seconds of rest before going on to the next exercise in the circuit. You keep going through the circuit, or tabata, until 4 minutes are up, then move on to another tabata.
While you’re not burning as many calories actually doing the workout (because it’s so short), your metabolism stays high afterwards, making for maximum return on investment.
Recently, I decided to turn the Iron Strength Workout featured in Runner’s World into my own version of a tabata. I do each tabata 2-3 times, depending on how ambitious I’m feeling, and it kicks.my.butt.
Full disclosure: this is NOT fun. It’s challenging and sort of makes me want to cry. But the fact that you only have to do each exercise for 20 seconds is a huge bonus. To get through those 20 excruciating seconds, I say cheesy things to myself like, “You CAN do this! You ARE strong! Don’t be a p—y!” I’m so nice to myself. 
But really–think of some mantra to get you through these because they are killer! But worth it. Promise.
Are you on the tabata bandwagon yet?
I did a 5 tabata workout last night and it kicked my butt – this one looks great too – pinned!
Brilliant tabata workout – thanks for sharing! I will try it out on my next workout
I cannot wait to get back to my full-on energetic functioning self and do a workout like this! Thanks for the idea Melissa!
Can’t wait to try this!! Haha I love that you yell mean things at yourself to get through it
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The iron strength workout is one of my favs….this looks intense! Can’t wait to try! I haven’t done tabatas yet and think I will start with this… Yay!
Hope you love it! This is a good one!
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So I tried this today …. PHEW! I’m exhausted – but in a good way
I’m glad you liked it!!! Kicks my butt, too!
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My quads still haven’t forgiven me for the mountain climbers, but I’ll be doing it again tomorrow!
I did it again today! It really is awesome, isn’t it???