Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to workouts nowadays.  I just don’t have the time for 45-60 minute routines.  And I don’t want to walk to the apartment gym at 5:15 am all by myself when it’s pitch black outside.  I’d rather set up shop in the living room, get nice and sweaty in the comfort of my well lit home, and call it a day.  And I find that by working out at home, I make more of an effort to keep things fresh and new.  Some days it’s a workout DVD, others it’s a little strength training, and about twice a week I’ll tabata for 24 minutes. 

If you want more information on tabata training and the interval timer I use, read this post.  It’s full of good information, and I also share a couple of my favorite tabata workouts.

Yesterday morning I attempted to create my own little routine.  If you’ve been reading this blog for any period of time, you know that I don’t create workouts.  What I do is find workouts and do them exactly as prescribed.  It’s just easier!  However, that all changed when Greatist published an article on 35 Cardio-Based Bodyweight Exercises.  For some reason, inspiration struck at just the right moment, and I came up with the following combo…

Fancy, huh?! 

I wanted something that would kick my butt (I went hard for the 20 seconds of work) and keep me moving (A exercises are performed standing up, while all the B ones are performed in a pushup/plank position).  Gasping for air, I seriously doubted my decision around minute 12.  But when the torture fun was over, I felt good.  Good, sweaty, a little nauseous, whatever.

The awesome part is that with Greatist’s list, anyone can create workouts like this.  Pick six exercises, pair them up, and tabata.  And if you’re thinking that you can’t possibly get a heart pumping workout in 24 minutes, I challenge you to try my workout creation.  It won’t let you down…and that’s a Parita promise! 

I will say this, if you are just starting out with a fitness routine, do not attempt to tabata until after consulting with a physician.  I’ve been working out regularly for years, and this particular routine had me breathing hard.  It’s not easy.  Use your best judgment when starting any new workout regimen.

Ok, that’s enough tabata talk for now.  Let me know if you try this workout and definitely share any combos you come up with.

And with that, I hope y’all have a happy Wednesday!

Have you tried tabata training yet?  Thoughts? 

Do you prefer cardio, strength, or some combination of the two?