Why is circuit training so effective?

Circuit training is more popular than ever before – and it’s easy to see why. Quick, efficient, high-intensity – this technique has been shown to burn fat, raise metabolism and help the body to build muscle more efficiently. So what makes circuit training so effective, and how could it help you to fulfil your fitness objectives?

A universal workout

Circuit training challenges the body more effectively than some alternatives, as it focuses on multiple areas in a range of different ways. Each individual station will deal with a different muscle group, offering numerous opportunities to tone and target depending on your specific focus points.

Beat boredom

As circuit training incorporates a mix of different exercises all performed at intervals, it can prevent the classic boredom that can often creep in during prolonged periods of physical activity. Circuits can also be adapted over time, so if you attend a circuits class once or twice a week, it can be switched up

Max results – minimum time frame

We’re all shorter on time these days – and increasingly gyms are exploiting a niche in the market for fat-blasting fitness designed for busier lifestyles. Circuit training allows for maximum results (sometimes directly comparable or more effective than a workout performed over an hour or more) in a much shorter timeframe. The element of convenience has additional benefits – as it’s much more likely that you’ll go to the gym more often if you feel you have time for it.

Ramp up metabolism

Circuit training has incredible benefits attached when it comes to accelerating and enhancing metabolism. For a fitness routine to be effective, it needs to combine with solid nutrition and efficient processing of food by the body. High intensity workouts have been shown in studies to significantly ramp up fat-burning capabilities – an effect which can last up to 48 hours post-workout.

A blended approach is best

Whilst the benefits of circuit training are clear, it’s important to remember that a blended approach is best depending on your specific fitness goals. For example, there are separate advantages attached to advanced cardio, bodyweight and weight lifting exercises. A combination tailored to you is likely to be more effective than just one training method alone.