Those of you who have been in class over the last week have probably heard a new word being used to describe some of the warm-ups. While the concept is not entirely new – we have been doing High Intensity Interval Training for years – the structure has changed a little to become even more focused on short bursts of intensity and short breaks with Tabatas. The “Tabata Protocol” was created by Izumi Tabata as the ultimate way to get the most out of your workout by effectively and efficiently getting your heart rate up to where you are using your anaerobic system – in short, this means you are now burning fat.
You can get a really good run-down of the Tabata Protocol right here. If you are interested, take a minute to google “tabatas” and you will find many other sources with information about this method for weight loss, cardio endurance, etc.
One of the nice things is that you can do this type of workout with countless different exercises – squats, pushups, high knees, sprints, or even punches or kicks. However, it is essential that you keep your safety in mind when doing these, or any, exercises. Although you want to create a high speed, high intensity workout, you must stay conscious of your technique at all times. It’s easy to get tired and start to drop your technique but it is wise to make sure that you are still protecting your back, your joints and other body parts from injury. Everyone needs to start out at the level they are at – and if something doesn’t feel right, ask the instructor or one of the assistants walking around to help you modify it to an exercise that is better for you.