With the unpredicted situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in recent weeks, many of us might want to look for alternative exercise programmes which are safer and more flexible for us to get involved in. To maintain our fitness levels while adhering to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in maintaining social distancing, we could opt for a range of solo-type of workouts like cycling, running or walking.
Thankfully, there is also a huge range of online fitness programmes which can be done safely in the comfort of your homes. In recent years, one of the most popular type of home workouts is Tabata.
Tabata workout involves short bouts of intense body movements such as squats, push-ups, planks involving simple tools like resistance bands, stability ball, dumbbell or kettlebell, but you don’t have to have these tools to try out beginner’s Tabata. Usually, they are done for 20 seconds for every eight rounds with a short break of 10 seconds between each round. One of the best plus points of Tabata for me is that I don’t need to invest in any special or expensive equipment to start my own Tabata training.
Suitable for even beginners, Tabata workout is said to be very effective in weight loss and building endurance, burning calories even after the exercise is over. It is also said that Tabata has aerobic and anaerobic benefits, something running or cycling cannot achieve. However, experts have given a word of caution to those who have high blood pressure or heart problems – therefore, it will be wiser to consult the doctor first before trying out the Tabata exercise regime.
There are countless Tabata trainers with training videos made for subscribers to follow the exercise regime, accessible anytime and anywhere which is very useful for us during this time of restricted movement to curb with the pandemic spread. Personally I subscribe to a channel on YouTube called “TabataSongs” because of its catchy tunes and energetic trainers. Seeing the trainers doing the workouts wholeheartedly (in the midst of muscle strains) motivates me to follow the exercise programme along, although not as fast and fit as the trainers in the videos of course!
With our without lockdowns, do get those muscles moving and stay fit for it will not only benefit you physically but mentally too.
**The facts and views expressed are solely that of the author/authors and do not necessarily reflect that of the editorial board.
