This week’s class of choice was circuit training. You’ll be pleased to hear I survived!
Having spent the whole of the day at the Oxford University Sports Complex, working on strengthening gluteal muscles and stretching my rather tight psoas, I can’t tell you how unimpressed my face was when I realised that this week’s circuit training was targeting both these neglected muscles! Fortunately there was some variety in store, a great relief for what started to become rather sore buttocks :-).
For those new to circuit training let me quickly explain the setup and aim of the class. Circuit training is reported to be an excellent way to improve mobility, strength and stamina. Comprising of 6 to 12 strength exercises each exercise is performed for a given time before moving on to the next. The exercises within each circuit are separated by a short rest period, and each circuit is separated by a longer rest period. The total number of circuits performed during training sessions varies from two to six depending on the training level, and the training objective.
It was good to see the instructor taking the class asking if anyone had any concerns with any of the exercises or indeed any pre-existing injuries or back problems. In this instance no one did but it’s nice to know that the exercises can be tailored to everyone. This should definitely inspire everyone to give it a go.
The classes tend to work on a different area each week and this week’s gluteal class was no exception. There were a number of exercises in my class that I would recommend against doing if you do suffer from a previous history of back pain, and some that I just don’t thing target the muscles they intend to. Those aside, I was definitely feeling the ‘burn’ over the next 2 days.
A sore but impressed Chiropractor!
