Recently, my Sensei implemented Tabata training into his adult karate class. Let me just say, it's an intense and effective training program.
For those who are unfamiliar with Tabata training, it’s a program that builds strength and endurance. How it works is you pick an exercise, any exercise, and you perform 8 intense sets. Each set is 20 seconds long, so you pump out as many reps as possible. In between each set you take a 10 second rest.
In class we've done heavy bag workouts where anything goes punches, kicks, knee strikes, elbow strikes etc... We've worked out our legs doing squats using resistance bands. The first two sets were easy but by the third set I was feeling it. In fact, my legs were killing me for three days which tells me I really need to do more leg exercises.
At home I've done jumping jacks which are great for your legs, shoulders, and endurance. This morning I did curls using the resistance bands and boy were my arms feeling it.
These past few weeks have been intense and effective. In fact, I've noticed a difference already in my endurance. What’s great about the program at Karate is you never know what Sensei has in store for you. I wonder what Tabata training Sensei has in mind for us in tonight’s class...
To learn read more about Tabata training check out these sites below.
http://timrosanelli.blogspot.com/2008/10/what-is-this-tabata-training-system-all.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_2130197_interval-training-elite-athletes-explained.html
