Has anyone done Tabata?

[InternationalPower]

It's a new exercise class from Japan. Guarantees to get you fit in 4 minutes - doesn't say how often!

Anyway my regular circuits class is switching to this soon and they've cut the hour down to 25 mins, as apparently we won't need/be able to do any more.

I'm a bit sceptical to say the least and wondered if anyone has experience?

[gindrinker]

I've done bits of it in other classes.
Its essentially 30 seconds work, 10 seconds rest for 4 minutes. (Or something like that)
Then next exercise.
Its fecking hard work but not deathly...

We did crunches, then pressups, then a pause then back to crunches. Repeat.

[InternationalPower]

Thank you, so do you think it's better than/equivalent to a hard regular circuits class for an hour?

[Imwoodword]

I know people who swear by it - do only it and are super fit. We do it at the end of my boxing cardio circuits class and it is hard work depending on the exercises and how hard you push yourself, as with any exercise.

[charitygirl]

I've had a go but I just don't think you can work hard enough on yr own - you need an instructor shouting at you. So a class format should work - I like the idea.

[timidviper]

I think it's similar to High Intensity Interval Training, a bit like the 7-minute workout but longer and cycling in intensity.

[Sleepwhenidie]

It's not new, but it is intense. 20 seconds maximum effort activity then 10 seconds rest, repeated 8 times. Done properly, by the end you will want to die/cry/throw up. Only for the very fit and probably only once or twice a week. You won't feel up to doing anything else after it. Gin your intervals sound good but crunches/push ups won't raise your heart rate enough to be considered Tabata. True Tabata is done on a stationary bike btw. Provides great fat burning and fitness gains.

International give it a go, you can download Tabata timer apps that tell you when to work/rest. Burpees are a great choice of exercise, or sprint flat out (if on a treadmill stand on the rail during rest intervals, there isn't time to adjust the speed). You may find it useful as a change from a circuits class, maybe after a weights session or if you can't get to a class and are short of time. See what you think.