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Showing posts with label Wall Sit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wall Sit. Show all posts

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 14

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 14

Equipment Used:
  • Sturdy Medicine ball (multiple of varying weights would be ideal)
  • Soft ground area to lie down (carpet/grass/etc)

Circuit #14

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warm-up
  1. Leg: Squat Throw/Press
  2. Core: Double Crunches
  3. Arm: One Arm Front Raise
  4. Total: Superman
  5. Leg: Walking Lunge Twist
  6. Core: Russian Twist
  7. Arm: Overhead Tri Extension
  8. Total: Push-Up Roll
  9. Leg: Wall Sit Squeeze
  10. Core: Overhead Side Bend
  11. Arm: One Arm Shoulder Press
  12. Total: Burpee Ball

Circuit #14 - Med Ball Madness

This circuit was created to foster teamwork and camaraderie among our workout group by focusing on partner exercises. Using a minimal amount of equipment, we utilize a partner to create additional resistance. If you lack a partner or have odd numbers in your group, the exercises can be modified for solo performance as well. When choosing partners try to match people who are of similar weight and/or physical ability. While performing exercises, communicate with your partner to coordinate each movement. Use good form and encourage one another to give it 100% during the circuit.

Certain exercises may require a slightly longer set to get enough work for both partners. Somewhere between 30 seconds to a minute for most. If you can, bring several different types of resistance bands and medicine balls. You could also use a sandbag or large diameter medicine ball (wall ball) for a couple exercises. Use your imagination and make replacements as needed. You will need a good amount of space to perform the exercises so clear out ample room.

All of these exercises are just variations of familiar exercises. Descriptions and video examples are linked below so take time to review them and practice your form before hitting the workout. Good luck!

Examples

1 - Squat Throw/Press
Video Example
Stand with feet shoulder width apart holding a medicine ball w/ both hands. Perform a traditional squat. When returning to standing start position, toss the medicine ball above your head. Catch the ball as you return to a lowered position for your next rep.
Optional: If the ball is too heavy or you become tired, just press the ball instead of throwing/tossing it. If that's still too much, skip the throw/press altogether and just squat.
2 - Double Crunches
Video Example
Lie flat on the ground w/ a medicine ball. Hold the ball w/ both hands and extend your arms behind your head so that the ball rests on the ground. Bend at the knees so that your legs are raised off the ground and are at a 90 degree angle. Feet are together. This is the start position. Raise your torso, arms and the medicine ball up. Move your torso toward your legs while swinging the medicine ball over your head and resting it on your raised shins. Now lower your torso and and swing your arms back to the start position. As you do this, leave the medicine ball on your shins and extend your legs outward. They should go from being at a 90 degree angle to flat, all while cradling the medicine ball. Once relatively flat, contract to the raised position in the same manner as before but instead grab the medicine ball from your raised legs and hold it in your hands as you flatten out. Repeat this process as your perform reps.
3 - One Arm Front Raise
Video Example
Hold your arm straight out in front of you with the medicine ball in your palm. Lower your arm down as far as you can while keeping the medicine ball steady. Press up and return to starting position.
Optional: If the ball is too heavy or you become tired, use both arms/hands.
4 - Superman
Video Example
Lay on your stomach with legs and arms outstretched. Hold the medicine ball in your hands and lift your arms and legs off the ground at the same time. Hold for three seconds and return to starting position.
Optional: If the ball is too heavy or you become tired, perform reps w/out the ball.
5 - Walking Lunge Twist
Video Example
Perform traditional lunges with medicine ball in hand. While lunging forward, start to twist your torso toward the same side as your leading leg. As you rise from the lunge, return to your torso to the center and begin the next rep with the alternate foot.
Optional: Some people bring both feet together in between alternating feet. It gives you a chance to re-center and get your balance back. Others go straight into the next lunge after rising from the previous rep. Do what feels best for you.
6 - Russian Twist
Video Example
Sit in a contracted crunch position with a medicine ball in hand. Hold the ball w/ both hands centered in front of your chest. Your legs should be bent at the knee and your body should make a "V" shape w/ your thighs and torso. Bodyweight should be balancing on your butt. Twist from side to side, lightly touching the medicine ball to the ground if possible.
Optional: Some people perform this on a raised surface w/ their legs hanging in the air.
7 - Overhead Tri Extension
Video Example
Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Hold the medicine ball overhead with arms stretched out directly above you. Bend your arms at the elbow while keeping your shoulders steady. This should place the ball behind your head. Extend the arms back to outstretched position.
Optional: You can either have your hands under the ball or on the sides of the ball.
8 - Push-Up Roll
Video Examples
While in push-up position, place the medicine ball under one of your hands. The other hand will remain pressed against the ground. Perform the push-up motion and when back in starting position, take your raised hand off the medicine ball and place it on the ground. Roll the ball over to your opposite hand and place it on top of the medicine ball. Perform another push-up. Keep alternating hands to perform reps.
Optional: A more advanced version is to release the medicine ball at the peak of your "up" position and roll it toward your other hand. While doing this, raise your opposite hand in anticipation of the ball arriving and land that hand on top of it. Keep alternating like this in rhythm.
Optional: An easier method is to simply perform half your reps on one arm first and then switch over to your other arm.
9 - Wall Sit Squeeze
Video Examples
Standard wall sit exercise but squeeze a medicine ball between your knees.
Optional: If this is too difficult and no lighter medicine balls are available, just hold the medicine ball in your hands above your head.
10 - Overhead Side Bend
Video Examples
Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Hold the medicine ball overhead with arms outstretched. Keeping arms straight, bend to your right side as far as is comfortable. Return to starting position and repeat on the left side.
11 - One Arm Shoulder Press
Video Examples
Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Hold the medicine ball in your hand at a 90 degree angle (this will leave the ball close to the side of your head). Press the ball up until your arm is straight over head. Switch arms and repeat.
Optional: You can performs several reps w/ one arm and switch to the other to finish.
12 - Burpee Ball
Video Examples
Holding the medicine ball with both hands. Jump up lifting the ball overhead. Proceed directly to push-up position with the ball under your hands as you stretch your feet out behind you. Bring your feet back to your chest and return to standing position. Repeat.
Optional: As with any burpee, you can optionally skip the jump and/or the actual push-up if you become tired or need an easier version.
Optional: A more advanced version can include a chest pass instead of a jump up if there is a wall surface available.

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Workout: Deer Park Circuit 1

Workout: Deer Park Circuit 1

Equipment Used:
  • A set of sturdy bleachers (preferably solid)
  • Optional: Gloves
  • Optional: Ankle weights
  • Optional: Weight vest
  • Optional: Rubber Bands / Resistance Band Loops
Tip: This workout can be done on any set of stairs.

Circuit #1

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Alternating Toe Taps (up) into Wall Sit Kicks
  2. Walking Push Ups (lateral)
  3. Stair Lunges (up) into Side Squats (down)
  4. Side Plank / V Ups
  5. Calf Raises into Bulgarian Split Squats
  6. Bleacher Burpees
  7. Single Leg Step Ups into Single/Double Leg Hop (up)
  8. Tricep Dips
  9. Bleacher Crawls (backwards or forwards, up & down)

Circuit #1 - Bleacher Workout

This workout is very similar to the plyo/iso workout. This time we are using a set of bleachers to provide an added challenge to the workout. For y'all attending the workout here in Austin, please note that the location is not Mueller Lake Park but Deer Park Middle School (address/directions at the bottom of the page). This workout can be done anywhere w/ a set of bleachers however. If bleachers aren't available, anywhere w/ a sturdy raised surface that will support your weight will do. If bleachers are available, try to find a set that is solid and doesn't have gaps that your foot can slip into. We don't want you out there getting hurt!

Your bodyweight is sufficient enough to use for this workout but if you want an additional challenge, I recommend using some form of added weight. I recently bought a set of K Bands and they work great. You just attach them to your thighs & go about your normal workout. A set of comfortable ankle weights and/or a weighted vest would work too. The workout does include upper body and a tiny bit of abs but it is primarily legs and cardio. Be sure to stretch appropriately.

The order of this workout is setup to travel around a set of bleacher stairs. Certain exercises are done in place wherever you happen to be. Others are done while moving either up or down the stairs. All bleachers are different and you may have to skip a step or two when performing up/down exercises if the stair width is really small. You can also travel up/down the bleacher seats themselves if it seems safe. Pay special attention to your footwork and try not to trip (especially when fatigued). Try to avoid using the railing for things like push-ups or wall sits unless you are absolutely sure it is sturdy.

A great portion of these exercises have not been used here before. Video examples are linked below so take time to review them and practice your form before hitting the workout. Good luck!



Examples

Alternating Toe Taps: Click For Video Example
Wall Sit Kicks: Click For Video Example

Walking Push Ups: Click For Video Example

Stair Lunges: Click For Video Example
Side Squats: Click For Video Example

Side Plank: Click For Video Example
V Ups: Click For Video Example

Calf Raises: Click For Video Example
Bulgarian Split Squats: Click For Video Example

Bleacher Burpees: Click For Video Example

Single Leg Step Ups: Click For Video Example
Single/Double Leg Hop: Click For Video Example

Tricep Dips: Click For Video Example

Bleacher Crawls: Click For Video Example


DIRECTIONS
Deerpark Middle School (North Austin)
Address: 8849 Anderson Mill Rd Austin, TX 78729

Find your way to Anderson Mill Road and either turn in one of the service roads or use Turtle Rock Rd to access the school.On the map picture below, the red "X" marks the location of the track. The school is an open campus and accessible 24/7. There is a circular paved track w/ a set of bleacher next to it. We should be gathered near the bleachers.



FROM SOUTH AUSTIN
  • Head North on I-35 / Mopac Loop 1
    *** Or just get to 183 North however you normally would
  • Merge onto US-183 North
  • Take the Anderson Mill Road exit
  • Turn right onto Anderson Mill Road at the light
  • Turn right onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
FROM NORTH AUSTIN
Toll Road
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to the TX-45 Toll Road however you normally would.
  • Take exit 250B toward TX-45/TX-1 (toll)
  • Keep right at the fork, merge onto TX-45
  • Take the exit for FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn left onto FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn right onto Anderson Mill Rd
  • Turn left onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
No Toll Roads
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to the McNeil Road however you normally would.
  • Take exit 252B-A toward RM 620/McNeil Rd
  • Stay right to keep onto Co Rd 171/McNeil Rd
  • Turn right onto FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn left onto Anderson Mill Rd
  • Turn left onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
FROM CEDAR PARK
  • Head South on 183
  • Take the Anderson Mill Road exit
  • Turn left onto Anderson Mill Road at the light
  • Turn right onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
 
Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 11

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 11

Equipment Used:
  • Timer (watch/phone/etc)
  • Soft ground area to lie down (carpet/grass/etc)
  • A raised, solid surface which will support your weight (park bench, steps, sturdy chair)
  • A heavy and light pair of dumbbells
  • Highly Recommended: Resistance Band (medium and/or adjustable recommended)
Tip: This could also be modified for indoor use however, just get creative!

Circuit #11

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Shoulders: Shoulder Press / Front Raises
  2. Back: Rows / Reverse Fly
  3. Plyo: Burpees
  4. Chest: Push Ups / Chest Press
  5. Arms: Tricep Kickbacks / Bicep Curls
  6. Plyo: Squat Jumps
  7. Core: Crunches / Plank
  8. Legs: Static Lunges / Wall Sit
  9. Legs: Stiff-Legged Deadlifts / Calf Raises
  10. Plyo: Box Jumps (Step-ups)
  11. Bar Work

Circuit #11 - Snider Superset

This circuit encompasses the entire body. It starts with the upper body and works its way down to your legs. This circuit is designed to move quickly and you should limit rest between sets. Since each superset hits the same body part twice, you should feel a good burn. Perform 3-5 sets per superset.

Due to the fact that this circuit will move fast, try to have a variety of different sized dumbbells available. You could also alternately have a light or medium strength resistance band handy to really burn out those last couple reps. Start heavy and when fatigued, drop to a lower weight. Focus on continuous reps and movement to maximize the burn during the entire set.

You can use up to 30 seconds of rest in between sets but we have been running continuous sets lately. Basically perform your first exercise then move into the second exercise to complete the superset. After that is complete, we move immediately back to the first exercise to start a second set. Once three sets are complete, we rest for about a minute. For plyo movements, we rest for 30 seconds in between sets however.

Many of these exercises are explained in greater detail in previous posts so browse those for additional tips and tricks. Video examples are linked below to refresh your memory on each exercise.

Examples

Shoulder
Dumbbell Front Raise: Click For Video Example
Shoulder Press: Click For Video Example

Back
Bent Over Dumbbell Row: Click For Video Example
Seated Dumbbell Reverse Flys: Click For Video Example

Plyo
Burpees: Click For Video Example
Box Jumps: Click For Video Example
Squat Jumps: Click For Video Example

Chest
Lying Dumbbell Chest Press: Click For Video Example
Push-Up: Click For Video Example

Arms
Dumbbell Curl: Click For Video Example
Tricep Kickbacks: Click For Video Example

Core
Lying Reverse Crunches: Click For Video Example
Plank: Click For Video Example

Legs
Squat Jumps: Click For Video Example
Wall Sit: Click For Video Example
Romanian/Stiff-Legged Deadlift: Click For Video Example
Calf Raises: Click For Video Example

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 9

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 9

Equipment Used:
  • Timer
  • Soft ground area to lie down (carpet/grass/etc)
  • A raised, solid surface which will support your weight (park bench, steps, sturdy chair)
  • Pull-up bar or similar raised grip point
  • Optional: Heavy gauge resistance band for static holds

Circuit #9

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. High Knees
  2. Static Hold Pull-Up
  3. Burpees
  4. Wall Sit
  5. Mountain Climbers
  6. Plank
  7. Iso Hold Half Push-Up
  8. Box Jumps

Circuit #9 - Plyo-Iso Intervals

This circuit alternates between high intensity and static exercises. It is suppose to be executed continuously in "rounds" that include every exercise for a period of time. We initially start out with 30 second intervals but you can increase or decrease this to fit your fitness level. Between rounds take an extended break for at least a minute or two to get your composure back. If you become tired or cannot perform the exercises as listed, there are several ways to make the exercise easier. Tips are listed in the "Examples" section below.

Plyometric exercises (plyo) help develop explosive muscle power. This can benefit your run times, punching speed or almost any activity that requires acceleration. It also helps increase endurance due to the fact that your heart rate is raised. The cardio and burst aspect of the plyo routine burns a lot of calories.

Isometric exercises (iso) strengthen muscle groups at a specific point in your range of motion. It creates maximum tension over a long period of time. Since iso exercises do not have any movement, it is not cardio intensive and thus does not require long rest periods. Iso routines are generally easy on the joints and somewhat safer than complicated plyo movements.

By alternating between Plyo and Iso exercises in the routine, you eliminate the need to take long rests between exercises. You essentially are "resting" during your iso exercise. This type of break is more challenging since you are still performing an exercise while waiting for the next plyo round. Test yourself and see how many rounds you can complete before calling it quits.

Examples

PLYO
Mountain Climbers: Click For Video Example
   Modified version: Place your hands on a raised surface instead of the ground.
Burpees: Click For Video Example
   Modified version:Eliminate the push-up step in the sequence.
Box Jumps: Click For Video Example
   Modified version: Step-up onto the surface instead of jumping.
High Knees: Click For Video Example

ISO
Plank: Click For Video Example
Wall Sit: Click For Video Example
Push-Up (Iso Hold): Click For Video Example
   Modified version: Place your hands on a raised surface instead of the ground.
Pull-Ups (Static Hold): Click For Video Example
   Modified version 1: Place your feet on the ground or similar solid surface. Pull yourself toward the bar. Hold.
   Modified version 2: Wrap a resistance band around a high bar or tall pole. Cross the band in an "X" and wrap the slack with your hands. Pull yourself toward the mount point. Hold.

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Monday, November 26, 2012

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 6

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 6

Equipment Used:
  • Timer (watch/phone/etc)
  • Soft ground area to lie down (carpet/grass/etc)
  • A raised, solid surface which will support your weight (park bench, steps, sturdy chair)
  • Highly Recommended: Resistance Band (medium and/or adjustable recommended)
  • Highly Recommended: One pair of heavy dumbbells
Tip: This could also be modified for indoor use however, just get creative!

Circuit #6

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Jumping Jacks (warm-up)
  2. Mountain Climbers
  3. Walking Lunges (weighted/incline)
  4. Calf Raises
  5. Squats Press
  6. Burpees
  7. Romanian/Stiff-Legged Deadlift
  8. High Knees
  9. Wall Sit
  10. Hip Bridge/Raises
  11. Squat/Box Jumps

Circuit #6 - Leg Armageddon

Is this madness??? No, this is LEG DAY!!! One of the most effective ways to grow/sculpt a muscle group is to target it specifically. We all dread leg day but secretly love it. It is what separates the casual gym-goer from the turly hardcore. Don't be that guy/gal at the pool or beach with ripped arms but stick legs! It will get real old wearing sweatpants everywhere to cover your Olive Oil legs up, lol.

Since the entire workout is leg specific, we decided to not superset each exercise. You can specify a set amount of reps if you wish but for our group environment, using a timer is best. The main focus is to be actively working the entire time period and not rest. Even if you have to do an easier or modified form of the exercise, keep moving! Don't cheat yourself.

Each exercise can be done with just bodyweight but it's best to use a heavy set of dumbbells or a resistance band to add stress. Your legs have the largest muscles in your body so it's important to provide them with a challenge. If you become fatigued during the alloted time, simply switch to using bodyweight only. Many of these exercises are explained in greater detail in previous posts so browse those for additional tips and tricks. Video examples are linked below to refresh your memory on each exercise.

Examples

Jumping Jacks Click For Video Example
Mountain Climbers: Click For Video Example
Walking Lunges: Click For Video Example
Calf Raises: Click For Video Example
Squat Presses: Click For Video Example
Burpees: Click For Video Example
Romanian/Stiff-Legged Deadlift: Click For Video Example
High Knees: Click For Video Example
Wall Sit: Click For Video Example
Hip Bridge/Raises: Click For Video Example
Squat Jumps: Click For Video Example

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Monday, August 6, 2012

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 4

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 4

Equipment Used:
  • Timer
  • One pair of dumbbells
  • Soft ground area for push-ups/sit-ups
  • Park Bench or flat area of similar height
  • Optional: Slightly lighter weight pair of dumbbells
  • Highly recommended:Water source / Shade
Tip: This workout is outside, designed for a park with some space & some basic equipment. Scout out parks near you.
*** Directions to the park we use is at the bottom of the page. (Mueller Lake Park)
Tip: At least here in Texas, it's hot as hell outside. Bring water and snack bars to keep your energy up. As always, drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest.

Circuit #4

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Walking Lunges into Push-Up Superset
  2. High Knees into Bent Over Rows Superset
  3. Burpees
  4. Bicep Curls into Wall Sit Superset
  5. Tricep Kickbacks into Plank Superset
  6. Mountain Climbers
  7. Squats into Shoulder Press Superset
  8. Reverse Ab Crunch into Reverse Fly Superset
  9. Squat Jumps
  10. Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
  11. Optional: Relay Runs
  12. Optional: 1-2 mile warm down run/walk

Circuit #4 - HIIT Style

We kept with the high-intensity style workout but tried to balance muscle groups better. Each superset should contain at least two groups to allow you to hit it harder. Instead of counting reps, we use a countdown timer and try to burn out as many reps as possible in the allotted time.

For supersets, perform as many reps as possible for the 1st exercise in 30 seconds. Without rest, move onto the next exercise in the superset and knock out reps of that for 30 seconds. That will complete one "set". Rest 30 seconds and repeat for two more sets. Be sure to drop weight and/or exercise difficulty level if you find it hard to complete reps the entire time. The main focus is to be actively working the entire time period and not rest.

For the compound movements (#3/6/9), perform as many reps as possible in 30 seconds. Again, you want to be moving the entire time so even if you get fatigued, keep moving and perform the exercise in a slower, more deliberate fashion. Focusing on form.

The exercises used are a reconfiguration of previous circuits so you can review those posts for more detail on each. A quick list of video examples are provided below to refresh your memory on any exercises.

Examples

Walking Lunges: Video Example
Push-Up: Click For Video Example
High Knees: Click For Video Example
Bent Over Rows: Click For Video Example
Burpees: Click For Video Example
Bicep Curls: Video Example
Wall Sit: Click For Video Example
Tricep Kickbacks: Click For Video Example
Plank: Click For Video Example
Mountain Climbers: Click For Video Example
Squats: Click For Video Example
Shoulder Press: Click For Video Example
Reverse Ab Crunch: Click For Video Example
Reverse Fly: Click For Video Example
Squat Jumps: Click For Video Example
Pull-Ups: Video Example (Assisted)

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

DIRECTIONS
The closest intersection is at the edge of the park.
Map to the following intersection:
Simond Ave & Mattie St, Austin TX 78723
FROM NORTH AUSTIN
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward 51st Street
  • Merge onto I-35 Frontage Rd
  • Turn left onto E 51st St
  • Turn right onto Mueller Blvd
    *** Once on Mueller, Seton Hospital will be to your right
  • At the traffic circle, make a left onto Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street
FROM SOUTH AUSTIN
  • Head North on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward Airport Blvd (237A)
  • Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Airport Blvd S/TX-111 Loop E and merge onto TX-111 Loop S/Airport Blvd
  • Turn left onto Aldrich St
    *** Should be first major stoplight
  • At the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 3

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 3

Equipment Used:

  • Timer
  • One pair of dumbbells
  • Soft ground area for push-ups/sit-ups
  • Park Bench or flat area of similar height
  • Optional: Slightly lighter weight pair of dumbbells/li>
  • Optional: Pull-Up bars
  • Highly recommended: Water source / Shade

Tip: This workout is outside, designed for a park with some space & some basic equipment. Scout out parks near you.
*** Directions to the park we use are at the bottom of the page. (Mueller Lake Park)

Tip: At least here in Texas, it's hot as hell outside. Bring water and snack bars to keep your energy up. As always, drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest.

Circuit #3 - HIIT Style

"Superset to make 'em sweat!!!"
The circuit has been getting stale so we decided to switch things up and go for a more high-intensity style workout. Instead of counting reps, we use a countdown timer and try to burn out as many reps as possible in the allotted time.

For supersets, perform as many reps as possible for the 1st exercise in 15 seconds. Without rest, move onto the next exercise in the superset and knock out reps of that for 15 seconds. That will complete one "set". Rest 30 seconds and repeat for two more sets. Be sure to drop weight and/or exercise difficulty level if you find it hard to complete reps the entire time. The main focus is to be actively working the entire time period and not rest.

For the compound movements (#3/6/9), perform as many reps as possible in 30 seconds. Again, you want to be moving the entire time so even if you get fatigued, keep moving and perform the exercise in a slower, more deliberate fashion. Focusing on

*** INTENSITY TIP: If you find the circuit too easy initially, make sure you are doing the weighted and/or most advanced version of each exercise. If you already are then increase the length within the superset to 30 seconds per exercise but do not increase the rest time. So do 30 seconds of part "A" and then immediately into 30 seconds of part "B". You can also optionally increase the time spent compound movements up to one full minute. BEAST MODE: ON

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warm-up

  1. Seated Bicep Curls into Reverse Flys
  2. High Knees into Shoulder Press
  3. Burpees
  4. Bent Over Rows into Triceps Kickbacks
  5. Static Lunges into Wall Sit
  6. Mountain Climbers
  7. Push-Ups into Plank
  8. Lying Kicks/Bicycles into Chest Press/Fly
  9. Squat Jumps (or Box Jumps/Step-Ups)
  10. Optional: Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
  11. Optional: 1-2 mile warm down run/walk

Stretch / Warm-up
Loosen your muscles (both upper/lower body). Stretch out and hydrate.

1 - Seated Bicep Curls into Reverse Flys Superset
A - Seated Bicep Curls
Click For Video Example
Get seated on a park bench or similarly raised flat area. Grab one dumbbell and lean over slightly with your legs open wide. Place your arm with the dumbbell inside of your leg with the back of your elbow resting against your inner thigh. Start completing reps of curls. After 15 seconds, grab your other dumbbell and immediately start Reverse Flys.
B - Reverse Flys
Click For Video Example
After completing your curls, remain seated on the bench. Grab your other dumbbell, place your legs tightly together and scoot up to the edge of the bench. Lean all the way over until your chest is touching your legs. Start with your dumbbells under your legs and complete reps of reverse flys. Complete as many reps as you can for the remaining 15 seconds.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ rest in between sets.

2 - High Knees into Shoulder Press Superset
A - High Knees
Click For Video Example
With no weights in hand but nearby, stand up straight w/ your feet shoulder-width apart. Begin an exaggerated in-place run, making sure to bring your knees as high as possible into your torso area. Maintain this running motion for 15 seconds. After 15 seconds, bend down and grab your weights, moving into Shoulder Presses.
B - Shoulder Press
Click For Video Example
After completing your high knees, grab your weights and remain standing. Move the dumbbells into position near your head with your arms bent at a 90 degree angle facing upward. We will push the dumbbells upward into the sky until they touch at the top to perform a rep. Knock out as many reps as you can for 15 seconds.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ minimal rest in between sets.

3 - Burpees
Click For Video Example
Stand up with feet shoulder-width apart and plenty of clear space around you. With no weights in hand we want to first drop down from a standing position into a crouched position. Knees bent and your hands on the ground and a little more than shoulder width apart. While crouched, kick both legs back and have your legs rest on your toes so that you're in a push-up position. Perform one push-up.
Bring your legs back toward your hands and scoot your feet forward so that you are crouching again. Now stand up quickly and push your body to jump off the ground a few inches. Stretch your arms into the sky as you jump. This completes a rep. When you land, start into the burpee motions again. Repeat as many reps as possible within 30 seconds. This completes a set. Rest 30 seconds and repeat. Knock out at least three sets w/ minimal rest between sets.

4 - Bent Over Rows into Triceps Kickbacks Superset
A - Bent Over Rows
Click For Video Example
Stand with your feet fairly close together. Bend your knees slightly and bend over at a 45 degree angle with your back straight. Grasp your dumbbells with wide overhand grip and place them close together, hanging down in front of you. Pull your arms back and pull your dumbbells up toward your shoulders. Since you are bent over and have the dumbbells overhand, your elbows should bow out away from your body at about 90 degrees. Keep bending your elbows until they pass the angle created by your back. Return to starting position to complete a rep. Complete as many reps as possible within 15 seconds then start Triceps Kickbacks.
B - Triceps Kickbacks
Click For Video Example
Stand in the same bent over position as you would for Rows. This time start with your elbows tucked in close to your body and your arms bent upward. Your weights should rest near your shoulders in a position similar to having ski poles tucked under your armpit. To perform a rep you want to slowly swing both weights around, downward and then back until both warms are fully extended and slightly behind our backs. Return to starting position to complete a rep. Perform as many reps as possible in the remaining 15 seconds.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ minimal rest in between sets.

5 - Static Lunges into Wall Sit Superset
A - Static Lunges
Click For Video Example
Stand with one foot forward and the other one back, about 3ft apart. You can optionally hold dumbbells in each hand to make it more challenging. Bend your knees to lower your body toward the ground. Your rear knee should touch (or come close to) the ground. Your front knee should bend but make sure it doesn't move in front of your toes. Once lowered, push through your front heel to return to the raised position and make sure to keep your torso straight. Perform as many lunges as you can for 15 seconds.
B - Wall Sit
Click For Video Example
Find a wall, pole or other vertical surface, turn around and face your back to it. Push your hips, lower back and shoulders against a flat, vertical surface. Walk your feet out so that you can lower your body down until your legs are at a 90 degree angle. Push through your heels. You can have rest your hands behind your head, on your hips, at your sides or on your thighs. If the exercise is too hard, raise your legs so that they are slightly wider than 90 degrees. If the exercise is too easy, you can hold weights in one or both hands to increase difficulty. Hold for 15 seconds.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ minimal rest in between sets. Alternate the rear leg each set for the lunges.

6 - Mountain Climbers
Click For Video Example
Get down into a push-up position. With your hands planted the entire time, bring one knee forward toward your chest and rest on the balls of your toes. To perform a rep, simultaneously pull your other knee toward your chest while kicking the leg with the bent knee backwards into a straight position. Essentially switching places. Repeat as many reps as possible within 30 seconds. This completes a set. Rest 30 seconds and repeat. Knock out at least three sets w/ minimal rest between sets.

7 - Push-Ups into Plank Superset
A - Push-Up
Click For Video Example
Find a soft area to kneel down. Get into the front leaning rest position w/ your legs extended. Start completing reps of push-ups. After 15 seconds, get back onto your knees and move immediately into the Plank.
B - Plank
Click For Video Example
After completing your push-ups, remain on the ground. Get face down to the ground, resting on the forearms w/ palms flat on the floor. Push off the floor, rising onto your toes and rest on your elbows. Keep your back flat and form a straight line from head to heels. Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominals to prevent your rear end from sticking up in the air or sagging in the middle. Hold for 15 seconds to finish the set.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ minimal rest in between sets.

8 - Lying Kicks/Bicycles into Chest Press/Fly Superset
A - Lying Kicks/Bicycles
Click For Video Example
Find a soft surface and lie down. Tilt your head forward so it is slightly off the ground. Place your hands under your butt to support your lower back. Raise both your feet off the ground a few inches w/ your legs out straight. Now raise your left leg to a 45 degree angle while leaving the right leg out straight. Lower the left leg, keep it straight and then raise the opposite leg 45 degrees. Repeat and alternate to perform reps. Maintain reps for 15 seconds.
Optional: If you do not like flutter kicks, lie on your back and perform the following: Optional Video Example. In the same lying position as flutter kicks, place both hands behind your raised head. We will instead bring your left knee in toward right elbow and attempt to make them touch. Keep your right leg out straight. Return to the start position & perform a rep w/ the other leg. Repeat and alternate to complete multiple reps.
B - Chest Press/Fly
Click For Video Example
While still lying on the ground after your kicks/bicycles, grab two dumbbells. Lie flat on your back and place your arms at 90 degrees, holding the weights in the air. Press them upward and extend your arms straight until the weights touch. Then return to your 90 degree position. Perform as many reps as possible in the remaining 15 seconds.
Optional: If you prefer, you can lie on your back and perform the following: Optional Video Example. In the same position as chest presses you want to have your forearms at a 45 degree angle or lower with respect to the ground. Weights in hand you will bring both weights together over your chest, slowly swinging your arms up in a semi-circular motion. Return to the starting position to perform a rep.
*** Intensity Tip: With either the press or the fly, you can perform leg raises while doing your chest exercise to hit your abs simultaneously.
C - Rest 30 seconds
Repeat the entire superset at least three times w/ minimal rest in between sets. Alternate the rear leg each set for the lunges.

9 - Squat Jumps (or Box Jumps/Step-Ups)
Click For Video Example
Get into a standing squat position, feet a little bit more than shoulder-width apart. You will squat down, bending your knees and lowering your butt down as if sitting in a chair. Bend your arms and bring your hands upward and toward you as you squat. Once fully lowered, explode back up through a standing position. Pushing through your heels and jump off the ground while extending your arms over your head into the air. Repeat as many reps as possible within 30 seconds. This completes a set. Rest 30 seconds and repeat. Knock out at least three sets w/ minimal rest between sets.
Optional: If you don't like squat jumps or become fatigued before the set is complete, perform the following: Optional Video Example Find a sturdy, raised surface that can support your weight. Stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart. Jump onto the raised surface, pause a second and then either step, fall or jump back down. Repeat to perform reps.
Optional: If you can't do squat/box jumps or become fatigued before the set is complete, perform the following: Optional Video Example. Alternating each leg, step up onto the raised surface and then bring your trailing leg up beside it. Step down carefully with each leg and repeat.
*** Intensity Tip: If you find squat jumps to easy you can step it up by throwing in split squats between squat jump reps. You can view an example of how to do split squats here: Optional Video Example Like a squat jump, explode into the air but land in a lunge position with one leg to the rear and the corresponding knee close to the ground (do not touch the ground). Jump back into the air and alternate your rear leg. This completes a rep. Throw in a few reps of these between jump squats to mix things up.
*** Intensity Tip: If you find squat jumps to easy you can perform them with weights in hand. Since you have to carry weights, you may have to change your squat jump form to accommodate the weight and not hurt yourself. A common method to squat jump with weights is to perform a "Sumo" squat jump. An example can be found here: Optional Video Example You want to grab a dumbbell and hold it with both hands vertically by one end. Your legs should be more than shoulder-width apart with your toes pointed slightly outward. Your arms should be fully extended downward in front of you, holding the weight centered. When you squat, attempt to touch the bottom of the weight to the ground while bending your knees and not your back. Try to stay upright as much as possible and don't bend over too much. Your legs should be doing the work. Touch the weight to the ground, push through your heels and then explode back up, jumping off the ground slightly. The height on your weighted sumo squat jump will be smaller than a normal squat jump.

10 - Optional Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
Video Example (Assisted)
Find a set of pull-up bars (if none available, skip this exercise or perform Delt Rows off a park bench). Perform as many pull/chin-ups as you can un-assisted. If a workout partner or sturdy cooler is available, perform as many assisted pull/chin-ups as possible. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: If no pull-up bars are available, perform the following: Delt Rows Video Example
Optional: You can use a lower hanging pull-up bar and a sturdy cooler to perform assisted pull/chin-ups.
Optional: If you have a friend available, you can bend your knees and have a friend assist you by pulling up on your knees.

11 - Optional Run
If you're still up for it, either walk or jog a short 1/4 to 1/2 mile course around the park. Walk the entire route to cool down or if you're not tired yet, perform alternating sprints and jogs every 1/8 mile. Walk it out an extra 1/8 mile at the end to cool down after.
Optional: You can hit the sidewalk and follow it around for a 2 mile course.

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

DIRECTIONS
The closest intersection is at the edge of the park.
Map to the following intersection:
Simond Ave & Mattie St, Austin TX 78723

FROM NORTH AUSTIN

  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward 51st Street
  • Merge onto I-35 Frontage Rd
  • Turn left onto E 51st St
  • Turn right onto Mueller Blvd
    *** Once on Mueller, Seton Hospital will be to your right
  • At the traffic circle, make a left onto Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street

FROM SOUTH AUSTIN

  • Head North on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward Airport Blvd (237A)
  • Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Airport Blvd S/TX-111 Loop E and merge onto TX-111 Loop S/Airport Blvd
  • Turn left onto Aldrich St
    *** Should be first major stoplight
  • At the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street