30 Minute Machine-Based Circuits

emAZn
emAZn Posts: 413 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I was wondering what experiences people have had with the 30 minute machine based circuit training that can be found at gyms such as YouFit or Planet Fitness.. In case you don't know what they are they have a green light-red light system where the green is go for 1 minute and the red light is rest for 30 seconds. It's 10 machines (mostly upper body and back) and you alternate your "green" time from either a machine or using the stepper (for cardio).

When I do the circuit I usually just do the machines for 2 rounds since I get my cardio in another form of exercise. I also don't count my reps but I go the full minute focusing on slow controlled reps at the highest weight I can lift in the proper form (its usually somewhere between 10-15 reps).

Then some stupid "personal trainer" salesman said the circuit was ineffective because the machines isolate the muscle you are trying to work out and prevent you using your whole body and getting a better work out. I can think of ways to alternate some kettlebell squats and rotating lunges in for where the stair-stepper portion might be but over all I just like the green/red system :)

What are other's experiences with this type of resistance training? I've always sucked at being motivated to strength train and figured some was better than none?

Replies

  • TimeFourMe
    TimeFourMe Posts: 104 Member
    If you like it keep doing it. What would be ineffective would be to do none at all. the trainer was just fishing to see if he old get a new client. Keep up the good work. Even after having a trainer I still am too shy to use the machines. I'd love a red light green light system as well as a routine to know what machines to do. It would be motivating.
  • emAZn
    emAZn Posts: 413 Member
    Thanks! I just like the red light green light because then I'm not trying to reach a number or even focus on counting I can find myself focusing on the movement and trying to make each rep really count. I just wasn't sure of the effectiveness of something like that because the machines are pre-set and they never change and I've read the importance of switching up your routines every now and then.
  • Stormeka
    Stormeka Posts: 1
    At least a couple of months I do the circuit training at Planet Fitness. It gives me something different to do and it adds much needed cardio to my routine. I go in and BEAST. I also bring a 10 lb plate sometimes and on the cardio time - I just do weighted squats as many as I can. I even bring my jump rope and try to jump during the cardio time. If I don't have a lot of time it's a great quick all over workout.
  • shapefitter
    shapefitter Posts: 900 Member
    I am not quite ready for the gym. I do my sit ups, in the morning (aim to do 200, by xmas). In the evening, I do 20 min walking, and that's my 30 min a day.
  • emAZn
    emAZn Posts: 413 Member
    I'm definitley going to start bringing some free weights over. Great idea! Thanks!

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