Simple does not always mean easy, especially when it comes to fitness. Take the plank for example. It’s a very basic move, but done perfectly, is not easy at all, hold that for a while and you’re going to feel the burn. Earlier this week I checked out an interval training class at the West Side YMCA (West 63rd St & Central Park West) and while the majority of the moves were pretty simple, this class was challenging!
Taking place in a huge gymnasium, it brought back memories (or nightmares?) from my younger athletic days when I had to run dreaded suicides (which were part of this workout too). This one-hour class showed that you don’t need complicated movements and equipment to sweat. When you get into unnecessarily complicated moves and intricate equipment you may feel overwhelmed, focused more on what the details of what you’re supposed to be doing instead of actually doing it.
Interval training, workouts where you alternate periods of high-intensity exercise with low-intensity recovery periods, is an extremely efficient way to burn calories. If you compare interval training to a slow and steady workout, doing the same thing the entire time, interval training wins in calories burned. Interval training is efficient, burns more fat than steady workouts, doesn’t require equipment, is something you can do anywhere and revs up your metabolism.
To get the benefits of interval training, you can attend a class or create your own routine. Many ideal interval training moves are ones you already know. A few of the best from the YMCA class:
- Suicides (start at one point and progressively run to further points, each time returning to your starting point)
- Push Ups
- Crab Walk (as seen in the first photo)
- Planks
- Jumping Jacks
- Burpees
- Mountain Climbers
- Jump Squats
- Planks
If you’re new to interval training, I recommend first checking out a class to learn the basics, like the best moves to do, how hard you should be pushing and how long your rest periods should be. And while I’m no stranger to doing workouts on my own, I always feel that I work harder when surrounded by others. Seeing them work hard makes me want to work hard too. Can’t get to a class this weekend? Check out Daily Burn’s 3 Quick HIT Workouts for Beginners. They range from 10-30 minutes, require no equipment and very little space. Thanks YMCA for reminding me that simple workouts can be the most effective!
*This post is in partnership with the YMCA. All opinions are my own. In this partnership I’m going to check out additional Y locations and classes, stay tuned to hear more.
