Are you looking to find a way to get fit, but struggle to find time for exercise?  Then it may be time for you to try a Tabata workout. Developed by Dr. Izumi Tabata, it is a very short, high-intensity workout that has similar elements to CrossFit and circuit training. It's attractive to busy individuals because it offers the maximum benefit with the least amount of time used to get those results.

Following a recommendation from a friend, I followed this workout at home (yes, I'm still abiding by government recommendations to stay home) twice this week.  As mentioned previously, I would rank my current level of fitness about 6 out of 10.

What I liked

1. This was a great Tabata workout for beginners.  The exercises were simple to execute, and the video was produced in a way such that the exercises were demonstrated ahead of time, so you know what is coming next.  

2. The music selection was great, and provided me energy during the workout.

3. Each set lasts 20 seconds, with a 10 second rest period in between, and you are free to increase, or decrease the intensity of your effort as you like, depending on your level of fitness.  Admittedly, I underestimated how tough the workout would be, so I probably worked harder than I should have.

4. My muscles got a slight pump at home without using any equipment or free weights.

5. The total workout was only about 12 minutes long, and I was physically tired after finishing it. 

Benefits

• My abs were quite sore and tired without needing to do dozens of crunches or sit-ups.
• My rear deltoids were engaged and loaded in a way that I didn't think was possible without doing a rear delt fly using dumbbells .  

Overall recommendation

This was a great Tabata workout, and I think it's perfect for individuals trying to get fit by exercising effectively without needing to go into the gym.  It only took about 12 minutes, and multiple muscle groups were targetted (legs, arms, shoulders, abs). I'll explore other Tabata workouts over the next few months, and share my experiences with those too.

Work smarter, not harder, - Allen F. Morgenstern

While we all cope with being stuck at home for weeks on end, I hope you can also make some small changes in your life that lead to gains that will make you happy!

If you would like to share any of your experiences trying to improve your fitness while stuck at home, I would love to hear them in the comments section below.

Good luck, stay home, and stay safe!

Photo by Anton Mislawsky on Unsplash