A healthy lifestyle involves constant communication with your body in order to improve your physical condition. For those who, through sports activities, are trying to get rid of various deficiencies and diseases, it is useful to familiarize themselves with the history and basics of the Tabata protocol - a set of physical exercises for burning excess fat and combating excess weight.
The history of the Tabata protocol
There are hundreds of different methods for controlling excess weight, designed to create a beautiful and harmonious human body. One of the most effective developments in the field of physiology and fitness training is the Tabata protocol. The history of the technique began in the mid-nineties of the last century. Japanese physician, former coach of the famous Japanese sprint speed skater team, Izumi Tabata, published two articles on sports medicine. Translated into Russian, they were called something like this: “The effect of moderate-intensity intermittent exercise on anaerobic capacity and VO2” and “Metabolic profile of intense intermittent exercise.”
The essence of the technique is interval physical activity in a minimum amount of time, alternating with equally short periods of rest. The system can be combined with intense aerobic sports activities (running, rowing) and weight-bearing exercises. An increase in muscle mass significantly increases its ratio to body fat. The higher the amount of muscle tissue, the more fat is removed from the body per unit of time.
Important! Classes according to the protocol should be started only after receiving a doctor’s recommendation. In this case, by doing fitness, you can achieve the main goal - removing excess fat from the body and losing weight.
Advantages of the Tabata protocol compared to other fitness systems
The interval training method can significantly increase both the aerobic capacity of the human body and anaerobic endurance. Research conducted by the scientific team showed that six weeks of training according to the protocol (five days during the week) lead to an increase in the body’s aerobic endurance by 14%. Anaerobic power increases by 28%. Thus, after a set of intense training, the amount of energy received by the body sharply increases when there is a deficiency of oxygen in the blood.
Training carried out according to the Tabata protocol significantly increases the overall endurance threshold of the body. When performing exercises to lose weight, your metabolic rate increases. This allows you to significantly increase the rate of burning fat deposits. Studies have shown that the metabolic rate of those exercising this system increases by approximately 12–15 times compared to standard indicators. A person is exposed to stress during physical activity. Gradually getting used to the intensity of the exercises, the body begins to work to burn fat around the clock.
To create a protocol without the use of additional weights, designed for 20 minutes, a team of researchers was assembled under the leadership of Talisa Embert. The program included, among other things:
- push ups;
- scissor squats;
- box jumping;
- burpee (a cycle of movements from various positions);
- jumping rope;
- jumping with a clap above your head.
16 men and women aged from 20 to 47 years were selected to conduct the experiment. The level of training of the subjects was quite high. Before the start of the experiment, a comprehensive test was carried out on a treadmill. Each person's maximum heart rate and VO2max level were determined. The Borg Perceived Exertion Index (6–20 units) was measured before and after training. Taking into account all the data, an individual set of exercises was selected for each person. After a 5-minute warm-up, the subjects performed four-circuit exercises according to the following scheme:
- work – 20 seconds, rest – 8 seconds. (8 repetitions);
- rest between repetitions – 1 minute;
- cool down – 10 minutes.
Medical indicators during training according to the Tabata protocol
Index | Category | Tabata Workout #1
(mean ± SD) |
Tabata workout #2
(mean ± SD) |
Heart rate, (bpm): | Women | 161 ± 10.3 151 ± 13.7 | 158 ± 13.5 155 ± 15.2 |
% maximum heart rate: | Women | 88 ± 5.7 84 ± 4.7 | 86 ± 7.4 87 ± 7.6 |
V.O.2 max, (ml/kg/min.): | Women | 33.7 ± 5.28 35.4 ± 6.39 | 31.5 ± 6.35 38.7 ± 7.19 |
% V.O.2 max: | Women | 81 ± 11.4 67 ± 8.6 | 76 ± 15 73 ± 12.1 |
Kcal/min: | Women | 12.0 ± 2.23 16.5 ± 2.65 | 11.3 ± 2.68 18.1 ± 3.41 |
Training IVN: | Women | 15.1 ± 0.99 15.6 ± 1.41 | 14.5 ± 1.41 15.7 ± 1.49 |
Lactate changes: | Women | 11.1 ± 2.64 11.3 ± 1.69 | 11.0 ± 3.12 13.3 ± 1.50 |
In the working phase, the subjects were required to perform the exercises at maximum intensity. The total training time is 20 minutes. Number of classes – 2. The results of the subjects turned out to be much more productive than when using other fitness systems. The time spent on achieving results (losing a certain amount of kg) in the Tabata protocol turned out to be much less. This is how the authors of the method assessed the results of the pioneers: “Four minutes of hard and very intense exercise squeezed out all the physical strength from the subjects. They didn't look like people. But when six weeks of systematic training had passed, they were extremely surprised by the results achieved.”
Contraindications for exercise
The risk group for high-intensity interval physical exercise includes those who suffer from various chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Since the classes are very intense, you should not start them the first few days after suffering respiratory illnesses. Before starting a workout, you need to make sure that your body is fully prepared for intense interval training.
An experienced instructor very quickly determines whether it is possible or not to start practicing. If a person has never run a distance of more than 3 kilometers, his body is poorly adapted to intense exercise. In this case, you should significantly extend the initial phase, performing the lightest exercises with low intensity. Classes are contraindicated for people suffering from obesity, hypertension, and vascular diseases.
Exercises for beginners and instructions
The classes, which will be conducted according to the Tabata protocol, are quite suitable for beginners. But the severity of physical activity should be minimal. For this, no more than six of the simplest movements are selected. It is possible to increase the intensity of the loads only if the technique of performing exercises for beginners has been fully mastered. This is necessary in order to minimize the risk of injury when increasing the pace.
If you decide to start training using this method, you need to take care of your diet. For what? The secret is very simple. Intense exercise significantly increases appetite. If you do not compensate for the influence of absorbed proteins, fats and carbohydrates, the result of using the protocol will be zero. This is especially true for female athletes. It's no secret that for women, the beginning of mastering a training system is associated with the desire to quickly lose weight. When all medical requirements are met, you can proceed.
There is a classic set of exercises, a set of which is given to those who are just starting intensive training according to the protocol:
- Push ups. A classic exercise in which, from a lying position, the arms are straightened and bent completely. The body is in the upper phase - on straight arms, in the lower phase - in contact with the floor.
- Burpee. Training all muscle groups in standing, sitting and lying position.
- Jumping with high intensity. Performed from a seated position with a jump to maximum height.
- Half squat jumps. Performed to the sides.
- "Dead bug." From a lying position, the arms are extended upward, the legs are bent at the knees and fixed for a few seconds.
- Push-ups with alternate release of arms and legs from loads.
Training Options
Many methods have been developed for performing interval training. They all come down to various cyclic loads. The most common cycles are without repetitions and with repetitions. Let's briefly look at three popular cycles of physical exercise.
Tabata in a row
Exercises according to the Tabata protocol can be performed in different sequences. The simplest option is to perform one after another at intervals:
- load – 10–20 seconds;
This complex is called “Tabata in a row.” For beginners, the number of exercises in one cycle should be no more than six. For those whose bodies are well adapted to heavy physical activity, the optimal amount is up to 12 per cycle.
Circular Tabata
The “circular” complex is performed with multiple repetitions. The easiest option is 4 exercises for 10–20 seconds. The rest period between loads is 10 seconds. The number of repetitions of the cycle is 4. As the body gets used to the loads, the number of movements in the cycle and the number of circles can be increased. You can complicate the complex, focusing on the goal: improving the general condition of the body, losing weight, or influencing certain muscle groups.
Reading time: 32 min
If you want to lose weight quickly and also improve your fitness, then regular Tabata training is a great way to achieve your goal. We offer you the most complete guide to Tabata training with a detailed description of their features and benefits, as well as a ready-made selection of Tabata exercises + training schemes.
Tabata training: what is it?
Tabata training is high-intensity interval training, the goal of which is to achieve maximum number of movements in minimum time. Tabata has gained incredible popularity among practitioners thanks to a very simple and universal technique. Tabata training, along with other types of high-intensity training, is gradually replacing classical aerobics and moderate-intensity cardio from the schedule of fitness enthusiasts.
History of Tabata Training
In 1996, Japanese physiologist and doctor of science Izumi Tabata conducted research in search of an effective way to increase the endurance of athletes. Izumi Tabata and a team of scientists from the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo selected two groups of exercisers and conducted a six-week experiment. The moderate intensity group worked five days a week for an hour, the high intensity group worked four days a week for 4 minutes.
After 6 weeks, the scientists compared the results and were amazed. The first group improved their aerobic performance (the cardiovascular system), but at the same time anaerobic indicators (muscles) remained unchanged. While the second group showed much more significant improvements in both the aerobic and anaerobic systems. The experiment clearly demonstrated that intense interval training using this method has a strong effect on both aerobic and anaerobic systems of the body.
The Tabata Protocol has been tested in a rigorous scientific setting and is one of the strongest pieces of evidence for the training's effectiveness.
Dr. Izumi Tabata has authored or co-authored more than 100 scientific articles in the world's most renowned sports publications. His name has become a household name thanks to the invention of this training method, which is very popular all over the world.What is the essence of Tabata training?
Tabata training has the following structure: 20 seconds maximum load, 10 seconds rest, repeat this cycle 8 times. This is one round of Tabata, it only lasts 4 minutes, but it will be a truly crazy 4 minutes! You must give 100% if you want to get results from a short training session. The load should be sharp and explosive. In fact, Tabata is a special case of high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
So, once again about the structure of the Tabata round for 4 minutes:
There may be several of these 4-minute Tabata rounds depending on the total duration of your workout. Between Tabata rounds you are supposed to rest for 1-2 minutes. If you practice at your maximum, then 3-4 Tabata rounds are usually enough for a full load. In this case, the total duration of the workout will be about 15-20 minutes.
How is Tabata different from cardio training?
How to do Tabata training correctly?
Exercises for Tabata training
Basically, plyometric exercises, strength exercises with your own body weight, and strength exercises with light weights are used for Tabata training. For example: burpees, squats, sudden accelerations, punches and kicks, sprints, etc. In principle, you can use any exercise for Tabata training, the main condition is to perform them to the maximum at a very fast pace.
Approximate schemes for performing a 4-minute Tabata round:
- The same exercise is repeated for 4 minutes in 8 sets.
- Two exercises alternate with each other (ABABABAB)
- Two exercises alternate in pairs (AABBAABB)
- 4 sets of one exercise, then 4 sets of another exercise (AAAABBBB)
- Four exercises alternate with each other (ABCDABCD)
- Four exercises alternate in pairs (AABBCCDD)
- All 8 approaches are performed with different exercises (for example, for different muscle groups)
If you don’t like repeating the same exercises, then take a workout where several exercises alternate at once. If, on the contrary, you do not like to constantly change exercises during a session, then take the option of one or two exercises in a Tabata round.
How long does it take to do Tabata training?
One round of Tabata lasts 4 minutes, then 1-2 minutes of rest and the next round begins. How many Tabata rounds you can withstand depends on your endurance. On average, 3-5 rounds are usually enough for a full-fledged Tabata workout; the time is 15-25 minutes.
On the other hand, if you prefer long programs, you can do Tabata workouts for 40-50 minutes. In this case, structure the lesson in such a way that one ultra-intense round alternated with a less intense round. For example, for 4 minutes you perform explosive burpees, next 4 minutes – calm bar. During such exercises, you will be able to regain your breath so that you can give your best again in the next round.
- All about the exercise
- All about the plank exercise
How often do you do Tabata training?
If you want to lose weight, then do Tabata training 3-4 times a week for 15-30 minutes or 2-3 times a week for 40-45 minutes. It is not recommended to do intense Tabata training every day, as it is very taxing on the central nervous system and can lead to overtraining.
If you keep in shape or if you want to add Tabata training to strength training, then it is enough to do Tabata 2 times a week for 15-30 minutes. You can do HIIT programs instead of classic cardio. Tabata exercises are best done after strength training if you do them on the same day. By the way, intense exercise according to the Tabata protocol is very useful if you experience stagnation in the growth of muscle mass during the period of strength training. With Tabata exercises you will not build muscle mass, but such programs are very suitable for breaking out of stagnation in the growth of strength indicators.
For fat burning, it doesn’t matter what time you train using the Tabata system: in the morning or in the evening. Focus on your biorhythms and individual capabilities. However, it is not recommended to engage in intense training on an empty stomach or before bed. Tabata workouts are very grueling and exhausting, so be prepared to feel tired after class. Especially at first, when the body is just adapting to the stress.
Is it possible to always do the same exercises?
Try to change your set of Tabata exercises without repeating the same program more than three times in a row. Your body gets used to the load, so with the same workouts, their effectiveness gradually decreases. Change not only the set of exercises, but also their order. For example:
- 1 week Tabata: burpees, horizontal running, squats, 180 degree jumps
- Week 2 Tabata: running with high knees, push-ups, jumping lunges, sumo squats
- Week 3 Tabata: horizontal running, squats, running with shins, burpees
- Week 4 Tabata: 180 degree jumps, spider plank, running with high knees, jumping lunges
You can return to old patterns, but try to change the order and add new Tabata exercises. Below are several ready-made plans with different exercises.
What is important to know!
If the workout is performed according to the principle of 20 seconds work, 10 seconds rest, this does not mean that it is truly a Tabata workout. For true Tabata, you need to perform the exercises for 20 seconds at your maximum for the workout to become anaerobic. Your goal is the most repetitions in the least amount of time.
The load must be explosive and very intense, which is why Tabata training cannot be long-term. Usually 15-25 minutes is enough if you train at full strength. You can do Tabata interval intervals at a medium pace, but for best results, training should be short, fast and very intense. If you like long workouts, then alternate between 4 minutes of high intensity and 4 minutes of low intensity.
Tabata exercises + ready-made training plan
We offer you a ready-made training plan according to the system tabatas for beginners, for advanced ones, as well as with an emphasis on the stomach, lower body, upper body. We offer you 4 exercises for one workout: one exercise for each Tabata round (that is, one exercise is performed for 4 minutes – 8 cycles). Accordingly, the lesson will last about 20 minutes without warm-up or cool-down.
You can increase or decrease the duration of your workout, or replace the exercises with ones that are more suitable for you. You can also vary the execution scheme (more about this was written above), i.e. Do not repeat the same exercise for all 4 minutes, but alternate two or four exercises in one Tabata round. It doesn't matter how you structure your workout, as long as you perform each set to your maximum.
Tabata training for intermediate level
Option 1:
- Kick forward backward (4 sets on each side)
- Elbow plank twists
Option 2:
- Skier
- Jumping in plank with legs raised
Tabata training for advanced levels
Option 1:
- Spider plank
Option 2:
- Push-ups (can be on your knees)
- Jumping lunges
Tabata workout with dumbbells
- Dumbbell squats (4 sets on each side)
- Dumbbell chest press
- Lunge with body rotation (4 sets on each side)
Tabata workout with emphasis on thighs and buttocks
- Plyometric Side Lunge (4 sets per side)
- Half squat leg spread
- Lunges in a circle (4 sets on each side)
Tabata workout with emphasis on the abdomen
Tabata workout focusing on arms, shoulders and chest
- Triceps push-ups (4 sets on each side)
- Push-ups left and right (can be done on your knees)
- Shoulder Touch Plank
Thanks to YouTube channels for the gifs: mfit, shortcircuits_fitness, FitnessType, Redefining Strength, Live Fit Girl, Luka Hocevar.
The effectiveness of tabata for weight loss
Tabata workouts are very intense, they dramatically increase your heart rate and maintain it at a high level throughout the entire session. So you can burn a lot of calories even for a short lesson. The exact number of calories burned is determined individually depending on your fitness level. As a rule, more experienced exercisers burn fewer calories than beginners. On average, you can burn 150 calories in 10 minutes of Tabata training.
But the most important advantage of Tabata training is not the high calorie consumption, but the “afterburning effect.” This means that your body will actively burn fat for another 48 hours after training, thanks to which you will significantly speed up the process of losing excess weight. For example, regular cardio training at a medium pace does not give such an effect, so doing Tabata is much more productive for the result.
Tabata workouts are anaerobic exercise, so they do not have a negative effect on muscle tissue, as opposed to the same cardio workouts. At the same time, they perfectly train the heart muscle and increase endurance. In addition, such high-intensity interval training increases the sensitivity of muscle tissue to insulin, which means it simplifies the fat burning process.
How quickly you can lose weight with Tabata training depends on your metabolism, the initial percentage of body fat, the regularity of exercise and, of course, nutrition. Remember that to lose excess fat you need to eat in a calorie deficit so that the body begins to break down fat for energy. The optimal rate of weight loss with Tabata training is 0.5 kg of fat per week. In the first week, a loss of 2-3 kg is possible due to getting rid of excess water in the body.
Benefits of Tabata training:
- This is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and burn body fat, while the risk of losing muscle tissue is minimal.
- The classes are short in time, and in terms of effectiveness they are not inferior to full-fledged hour-long programs.
- You will improve your aerobic (endurance) and anaerobic (muscle mass) performance.
- Tabata increases the sensitivity of muscle tissue to insulin, which means it simplifies the fat burning process.
- You can do Tabata training at home, on the street, on the playground, in the gym - anywhere.
- For Tabata training you do not need additional equipment; you can do it with your own body weight (but you can also use weights).
- Regular HIIT training reduces the risk of developing diabetes and helps fight depression.
- Training according to the Tabata protocol is very simple, clear and clear in its structure, and it is incredibly convenient to practice according to them.
Timers for Tabata training: 3 ready-made options
In order to successfully engage in Tabata training, you will need a special timer with a countdown. But where can you get a Tabata timer? We offer you 3 ready-made timer options for training according to the Tabata protocol.
The simplest thing is to download a free Tabata timer app for your smartphone. The programs are simple, convenient and customizable. You can change the number of intervals, adjust the exercise and rest time, and the number of cycles. Exercises are accompanied by a sound signal, so you definitely won’t miss the start and end of your workout.
Applications with Tabata timers in Russian for Android:
- Tabata Timer: link
- Tabata Timer for training: link
Applications with Tabata timers in Russian for iPhone
- CrossFit Timer - interval Tabata timer: link
- Tabata. Interval timer: link
2. Tabata timer video
Another option for training using the Tabata protocol: take special videos on YouTube with a ready-made Tabata timer. They are designed specifically for Tabata training - all you need to do is turn on the video and start practicing. The disadvantage of this method is that you cannot set the intervals yourself.
a) Tabata timer for 1 round with music (4 minutes)
b) Tabata timer for 1 round without music (4 minutes)
c) Tabata timer for 30 minutes with music
3. Sites with a ready-made tabata timer
If applications with Tabata timers and videos are not suitable for you, then you can take sites with ready-made timer programs. Just open the page, set the required intervals and start studying. Links will open in a new window:
- https://clck.ru/HJVvw
- Website with Tabata timer in English: https://clck.ru/HJVxj
2. Fat-burning Tabata workout (8 minutes)
3. FitnessBlender Tabata Workout (20 minutes)
4. Tabata workout: cardio + strength (30 minutes)
5. Tabata training from Monika Kolakovskaya (50 minutes)
Interval training is a workout based on the principles of alternating high and low loads in one exercise. A simple example is with accelerations. The goal is to combine aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
History of the creation of Tabata
The protocol was created at the Tokyo National Institute of Sports and Fitness in 1996. And it got its name from the name of its creator, Dr. Izumi Tabatu. He stated that 4 minutes of training according to his system is equivalent in calories (and therefore fat) to 45 minutes of regular moderate-paced cardio. And these data have been confirmed by research.
The essence of the system
The main task of the system is to organize training in such a way as to use training time with maximum benefit. The exercises are divided into two phases:
The first 20 second phase is of maximum activity, during this time you should give your best and do as many repetitions as possible.
The second 10 second phase is rest, you reduce the pace to a comfortable one, restore your pulse and breathing, continuing to perform the exercise at a slow pace. (Or complete rest)
These phases must change each other 8 times in 4 minutes. The exercise can be anything - squats, jumping rope, push-ups. Before performing, a warm-up is required, and after performing a cool-down, in order to avoid injuries.
Pros of the Tabata Protocol
- The workouts take very little time; a 5-lap workout will only take you 20 minutes.
- Tabata trains the heart muscle well.
- Develops endurance.
- Allows you to effectively burn calories, which means you can lose weight.
- The only equipment you will need when training Tabata is a stopwatch.
- You can practice at home, on the street, in the office.
- Accelerates, and the effect of training is felt for another day.
What exercises are included in the Tabata system?
You can perform any exercises according to the Tabata system, but you should give preference to complex exercises, such as - jumping your knees to your chest from a squat, squats,.
Those who do Tabata for weight loss lose up to 9 times more fat than those who train with regular cardio training.
Trained athletes showed a 28% increase in anaerobic power and a 14% increase in their ability to consume oxygen over six weeks of using the Tabata protocol.
The dangers of the Tabata protocol
The disadvantages of the Tabata protocol system include rather strict requirements for the health of the practitioner; a person who decides to try this system should not have cardiovascular diseases, joint problems, or high blood pressure. You should consult your doctor before using the protocol.
Tabata video protocol:
Style Summary
The Tabata protocol, like any interval training, has proven its effectiveness in practice. We recommend it to everyone who wants to get in shape, improve their vitality, save time, burn excess fat and have no health problems.
Losing weight with a minimum of effort at home without exercise equipment or trainers is the dream of every overweight person. Doctor Izumi Tabata took a serious step towards its implementation, developing a unique training method, which is now gaining wild popularity.
The principle lies in interval training at high speed, alternating with rest. One workout lasts only four minutes, it is recommended to do sessions 3 times a week, so by doing just 12 minutes a week, you form muscle relief, burn fat and tone the entire body. Doesn't it sound like a fairy tale?
What is the Tabata Protocol?
Each workout consists of eight sets, which are divided into 20 seconds of intense repetitions of the exercise and 10 seconds of rest. Your muscles work effectively in anaerobic mode for exactly these 20 seconds, and the minimum for recovery is just 10, during which you cannot drink water or flop down exhausted on a chair, it is best to walk at a calm pace.
Exercises must be selected wisely: firstly, those that you can do intensively - 8-10 repetitions in 20 seconds, and secondly, those that can use many muscle groups. The most effective exercises are burpees, squats, crunches, running in place, push-ups and jumping jacks. For greater effect, experienced athletes do all this with weights.
Benefit
Working at such a frantic pace, you engage almost every muscle fiber in your body. In 20 seconds, the ATP energy supply mechanisms first turn on, then the glycolytic ones come into play, they are responsible for burning fat. The Tabata protocol is the most productive in accelerating metabolism.
If we compare the “speeds” of a regular workout in a rocking chair and Tabata, then the latter is five times “faster”, and fats will be broken down even after completing a 4-minute session. Professional trainers compare the Tabata Protocol to a good 45-minute aerobic or cardio workout, which not only burns fat deposits, but also strengthens the heart muscle, cardiovascular system, and increases endurance.
Harm
It should be understood that Tabata is a high-intensity workout that is contraindicated for beginners in the sport and people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. Trainers say that if you have never tried running in your life and a distance of 5 km is an insurmountable barrier for you, you should approach training using the Tabata System with extreme caution.
Serious obesity (2 forms), spinal problems, atherosclerosis and hypertension will also be contraindications to training. Undoubtedly, you first need to do classical exercises, go to the gym under the guidance of a trainer, get into optimal physical shape, and only then start Tabata training on your own.
Let us take as an example a study by a team of scientists led by Porcari and Talisa Embert, who studied groups of subjects who trained according to the Tabata protocol.
The subjects' complexes consisted of additional weights, consisting of push-ups, scissor squats, box jumps, burpees, jumping rope, overhead clapping jumps, and others. The study found that on average, during Tabata training, subjects' maximum heart rate was 86% (84 - 88%) and VO2max was 74% (67 - 81%).
Both met or exceeded industry recommendations for improving cardiovascular fitness and body composition. In terms of energy expenditure, the 16 subjects expended 240 - 360 kcal during exercise, an average of 15 kcal per minute.
Once again, Tabata met current energy expenditure recommendations for improved health and weight loss. On average, subjects perceived Tabata as an extremely difficult load; the IVI was 15.4 (“hard”). In addition, the average blood lactate level of 12.1 mmol/L during exercise showed that subjects were performing well above their lactate threshold.
The researchers' conclusion was clear - despite all the effectiveness of the system, it is very dangerous to work so intensively. Before trying Tabata training, people need to have a good level of physical development.
So, if you have read or heard somewhere about a magical training system that takes so little time and gives such wonderful results, do not rush to delude yourself - it is only suitable for trained athletes. It is clear that the level of physical fitness is individual for everyone, but if you have never seriously exercised, then you can only get harm from using the Tabata Protocol.
Finally, here is a “delicious” video about the Tabata System with a pretty instructor, which will certainly help motivate you to do your homework:
The basis of training according to the Tabata protocol is an intense load for 4 minutes involving all muscle groups. This method is as effective as strength training in the gym and helps you quickly lose extra pounds at home.
By strictly observing the specified intervals (20 seconds for exercise and 10 seconds for subsequent rest), even a beginner will master the Tabata protocol. Reviews from experts indicate high effectiveness; training is recommended for both professional athletes and beginners in the field of fitness.
Japanese doctor Izumi Tabata, who developed the protocol, proved through clinical trials that 4-minute interval training brings tangible results after the second or third session.
Benefits of the Tabata Protocol
- Efficiency: extra pounds disappear after 2-3 sessions.
- Accessibility: no special equipment is required for training.
- Time saving: workouts last only 4 minutes, 3 times a week.
- Anti-cellulite effect: during training, the body becomes toned, skin tone increases.
- Improved metabolism.
Contraindications for exercise
Training according to the Tabata protocol is simple, but it also has its limitations. Since the load is intense, and the effect is achieved by accelerating all metabolic processes, including blood circulation, there are contraindications for exercise. Exercise is not recommended for the following diseases or conditions:
- Heart failure.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Violation of the vestibular apparatus.
- High blood pressure.
- Spinal diseases.
- Pregnancy.
None of the contraindications are definitive; after consultation and permission from a doctor, you can begin to perform the Tabata protocol. Reviews from experts in the field of physical education and fitness indicate that Tabata is intended only for professional athletes who are well physically prepared. However, beginners can also exercise according to this protocol, adjusting the load according to their well-being.
Tabata protocol: exercises for beginners and their principles
Essentially interval training, the Tabata protocol consists of 8 sets, each lasting 30 seconds. 20 seconds - sprint (exercise), 10 seconds - rest.
Despite the fact that the essence of the training is extremely simple, there are unspoken principles, without adherence to which efficiency can be critically reduced. Tabata principles:
- Do not eat 1.5 hours before training.
- Before class, do a warm-up consisting of simple exercises.
- All exercises should be extremely simple so that they can be performed quickly and several times in the allotted 20 seconds.
- Classes should be held 3 times a week, but not more often.
- Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth.
- Perform the Tabata protocol correctly. The timer will help you calculate the time correctly.
- To quickly lose weight, count your calories. The daily norm for losing weight does not exceed 2,000 kilocalories.
Tabata Protocol: Warm-up
Warm-up exercises will prepare the body for the load and minimize undesirable consequences for a novice athlete. The duration of the warm-up is at least 5 minutes. The list of exercises is quite wide, it is important to make a choice in accordance with physical fitness and well-being. Basic warm-up exercises:
- Lunges. We put one leg forward, lean on it, spring several times, then change legs.
- Squats. The heels do not come off the floor, the knees look forward, when doing this we stretch our arms forward, when we rise to the starting position we raise our arms up.
- Tilts to the sides, forward, backward. Perform at least 20 times.
Choosing exercises for the main training according to the Tabata protocol
There are no strict restrictions on the choice of exercises when training according to the Tabata protocol, everything is individual. The following principle will help you understand that the choice was made correctly: if you managed to complete the exercise 8 times in the allotted 20 seconds, then the complex was chosen correctly. At a more advanced level of training, you can increase the pace of the exercises or increase the number of approaches. The exercises of the complex can be changed, grouped, or replaced with more complex ones.
The main indicator of the effectiveness of the training is that you should feel tired at the end. However, at the initial stage you should not be zealous. If you feel unwell during training, you should stop and rest, otherwise there is a risk of overloading your body and causing health problems.
Exercises for Beginners
The Tabata training procedure (Tabata protocol) offers the following exercises for beginners:
After training, be sure to do a cool-down; you cannot suddenly stop exercising. For two minutes you need to walk quickly, slowing down. This way you restore your heart rhythm, the pulse drops to normal levels.
Time control
Since the training is interval-based and requires strict adherence to a time frame, a timer will be a must for conducting classes (Tabata protocol). It can be purchased as a separate device at a sports store or ordered from an online store.
You can also download a timer online and install it on your computer or laptop. For mobile devices, the timer is available in Google play and Apple Store.
The Tabata protocol for beginners consists of 8 sets of 20 seconds of sprint and 10 seconds of rest. As a rule, in all timers it is enough to set the time of two intervals (sprint and rest) and the number of approaches (rounds). Now just click on “Start” and start the workout.
To maintain a positive mood during training and create additional motivation, many timers are equipped with a built-in audio player with a saved playlist.
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Tabata Protocol: what the hell is it?
This is exactly what I said (to myself or out loud, I don’t remember) when I heard about this method. I won’t hide it, I am very categorical about all these newfangled methods, including this Tabata, which guarantees to lose weight in 4 or 7 or 15 or whatever they come up with minutes a day.
Why? Yes, because any weight loss begins with a diet, not with training. Diet is the BASIC and training is secondary. Without a proper diet, you can train all day long (not like 4 minutes a day: D) until you die = you still won’t succeed. Rest assured…
That’s why the girl who wrote to me by email (and there are a huge number of people like her) doesn’t succeed. Because excluding sweets, fried foods and fatty foods or simply starving is not a diet)), because any workout (including newfangled ones like tabata and others) does not work without a diet.
This is the basics. WELL, WHY, WHY, WHY is it so difficult to UNDERSTAND this?!
Most people are looking for some magical weight loss methods: hoops, green teas, films, bags, scrubs, corsets/belts.
087;preferring to believe in sweet lies instead of the bitter but effective truth...
The essence of Tabata training
Work (do exercise) at maximum intensity for 20 seconds
Rest for 10 seconds
20 sec work
10 sec rest
and so 8 circles (rounds)) (p.s. this is why the original Tabata lasts exactly 4 minutes, i.e. 160 seconds (exercises) + 80 seconds (rest), total 160 + 80 = 240 (exactly 4 minutes).
- If necessary, the training time can be increased (but it will no longer be the original Tabata), and the loads themselves can be adjusted. For example, 8 sets of loads are not 20 seconds each, but 30 or 40 or 50 seconds each.
- Also at an advanced level, you can perform each exercise (not in 1 approach), but in 2 or 3 or 4 or 5. But then this is no longer the original Tabata and the training will not last 4 minutes, but longer (depending on number of approaches in one exercise).
- It is also possible (ideally necessary) between approaches (when the break is 10 seconds), write down the number of repetitions performed in the training diary in order to track progress and gradually increase the load). For example: squat exercise, number of repetitions 10-8-8-7-7-6-6-5. If the sum of these numbers increases from week to week, then there is progress.
- The exercises used are absolutely any (squats, push-ups, lunges, burpees, jumping jacks, exercise bikes, deadlifts, parallel bars, abs, in short, any AEROBIC and ANAEROBIC exercises).
- Exercises per workout can be used both for one muscle (for example, the legs) and for all muscle groups (the whole body). For comprehensive development, it is better to use exercises for different muscle groups.
- Because in Tabata, 8 circles are used, respectively, for each circle there is 1 exercise (in total, 8 exercises should be completed per workout).
- What confused me was that this method does not have a WARM-UP before training. It is stupidly not provided for. This, in my opinion, is a gross mistake, because... there is an increased risk of injury. Accordingly, if you want to train using this method (by the way, it is not recommended for people who have heart problems) - you need to correct it yourself (by adding a warm-up).
- Training frequency per week. depends on how you train. Those. if the whole body is for training, then optimally 2-3 times a week. (for example, Tue and Thu. or Mon, Wed, Fri), if one muscle group (then you can at least every day), the main thing is that your fitness allows you + so that there are no conflicts in the recovery processes.
In general, in my opinion, nothing special, and personally this method reminds me of CrossFit. To be honest, I don’t see any difference at all with this tabata. Seriously, what's so funny? This is CrossFit, only within 4 minutes.
No, you can certainly argue that in CrossFit there is no rest at all between approaches (for experienced professional athletes, yes), but the majority have it, just minimally, the same 5-10 seconds (as in this Tabata). What's the difference then? SHE IS NOT! Tabata is CROSSFIT in 4 minutes. That's all.
But they just come up with it)). However, CrossFit, fitness, bodybuilding, and any workout on its own (without diet) if you want to lose weight (burn fat) does not work. Therefore, no matter what newfangled workout for weight loss you come across - remember, without a diet - it’s not worth a penny.
Without a proper diet, you will never be able to lose weight. NEVER! ! ! Get this into your head, and don’t fall for all the nonsense, in the style of “Tabata: the best workout for quick weight loss.” THE CORRECT DIET is the best way to lose weight. Training is secondary.
How many articles have I written about losing weight (burning excess fat) on my website... damn, I even published a whole book, where I talked about EVERYTHING from A to Z:
And people are still looking for a magic remedy for quick weight loss... It’s so sad, honestly...
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Tabata training: what is it?
A little history of Tabata training
In 1996, Japanese physiologist and doctor of science Izumi Tabata conducted research in search of an effective way to increase the endurance of athletes. Izumi Tabata and a team of scientists from the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo selected two groups of exercisers and conducted six week experiment. The medium intensity group worked five days a week for an hour, high intensity group worked four days a week for 4 minutes.
After 6 weeks, the scientists compared the results and were amazed. The first group improved their aerobic performance (the cardiovascular system), but at the same time anaerobic indicators (muscles) remained unchanged. While the second group demonstrated much more serious improvements in both the aerobic and anaerobic systems. The experiment clearly demonstrated that intense interval training using this method has a strong effect on both aerobic and anaerobic systems of the body.
The Tabata Protocol has been tested in a rigorous scientific setting and is one of the strongest pieces of evidence for the training's effectiveness. The doctor is the author and co-author of more than 100 scientific articles in the most popular sports publications in the world. His name has become a household name thanks to the invention of this training method, which is very popular all over the world.
What is the essence of Tabata training?
Tabata training has the following structure: 20 seconds maximum load, 10 seconds rest, repeat this cycle 8 times. This one Tabata round, it only lasts 4 minutes, but it will be a truly crazy 4 minutes! You must give 100% if you want to get results from a short training session. The load should be sharp and explosive. In fact, Tabata is a special case of high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
So, again about Tabata round structure for 4 minutes:
There may be several of these 4-minute Tabata rounds depending on the total duration of your workout. Between Tabata rounds you are supposed to rest for 1-2 minutes. If you work out to the maximum, it’s usually enough 3-4 Tabata rounds for full load. In this case, the total duration of the workout will be about 15-20 minutes.
How is Tabata different from cardio training?
During cardio training, the only and sufficient source of energy is oxygen. This type of load is called aerobic(with oxygen). During intense Tabata training, oxygen begins to run out and the body goes into an oxygen-free state. anaerobic mode (without oxygen). Unlike the aerobic regime, you won’t be able to train in the anaerobic zone for long.
However, it is short anaerobic training very effective for fat burning during and especially after training, for developing endurance, for strengthening and growing muscles. Anaerobic exercise is a real stress and test of strength, but in the long run it makes you stronger.
Who is Tabata training suitable for?
Tabata training is suitable for everyone who has training experience(at least intermediate level of training) and has no health contraindications. It is especially useful to regularly perform Tabata exercises for those who:
- wants to quickly lose weight and get in great shape;
- wants to shift weight and get rid of plateaus;
- wants to avoid stagnation in training, including accelerating muscle growth;
- wants to get new sensations from training;
- wants to develop his endurance and improve his physical fitness.
But if you're just starting out, don't jump straight into Tabata workouts. It is recommended to go to them only after 2-3 months of regular cardio and strength training.
Who is NOT suitable for Tabata training?
We emphasize once again that Tabata training is suitable not everyone. If you decide to start training in the Tabata system, make sure that you have no health contraindications.
Tabata training is NOT suitable for:
- physically unprepared people without training experience;
- those who have diseases of the cardiovascular system;
- those who have problems with the musculoskeletal system and joints;
- those who adhere to a low-carbohydrate diet or mono-diet;
- for those who have low stamina.
How to do Tabata training correctly?
Exercises for Tabata training
Basically, plyometric exercises, strength exercises with your own body weight, and strength exercises with light weights are used for Tabata training. For example, jumping, burpees, push-ups, squats, lunges, jumping jacks, sudden accelerations, punches and kicks, sprints, etc. In principle, you can use any exercise for Tabata training, the main condition is to perform them to the maximum at a very fast pace.
Approximate schemes for performing a 4-minute Tabata round:
- The same exercise is repeated for 4 minutes in 8 approaches (the most common option).
- The two exercises alternate with each other (ABABABAB).
- The two exercises alternate in pairs (AABBAABB).
- 4 sets of one exercise, then 4 sets of another exercise (AAAABBBB).
- The four exercises alternate with each other (ABCDABCD).
- The four exercises alternate in pairs (AABBCCDD).
- All 8 approaches are performed with different exercises (for example, on different muscle groups).
If you don’t like repeating the same exercises, then take a workout where several exercises alternate at once. If, on the contrary, you do not like to constantly change exercises during a session, then take the option of one or two exercises in a Tabata round.
How long does it take to do Tabata training?
One round of Tabata lasts 4 minutes, then 1-2 minutes of rest and the next round begins. How many Tabata rounds you can withstand depends on your endurance. On average, 3-5 rounds are usually enough for a full Tabata workout, in terms of time this 15-25 minutes.
On the other hand, if you prefer long programs, you can do Tabata workouts for 40-50 minutes. In this case, structure the lesson in such a way that one ultra-intense the round alternated with less intense round. For example, you do explosive burpees for 4 minutes, and a calm plank or power push-ups for the next 4 minutes. During such exercises, you will be able to regain your breath so that you can give your best again in the next round.
How often do you do Tabata training?
If you want to lose weight, then do Tabata training 3-4 times a week for 15-30 minutes or 2-3 times a week for 40-45 minutes. It is not recommended to do intense Tabata training every day, as it is very taxing on the central nervous system and can lead to overtraining.
If you keep in shape or if you want to add Tabata training to strength training, then it is enough to do Tabata 2 times a week for 15-30 minutes. You can do HIIT programs instead of classic cardio. Tabata exercises are best done after strength training if you do them on the same day. By the way, intense exercise according to the Tabata protocol is very useful if you experience stagnation in the growth of muscle mass during the period of strength training. With Tabata exercises you will not build muscle mass, but such programs are very suitable for breaking out of stagnation in the growth of strength indicators.
For fat burning, it doesn’t matter what time you train using the Tabata system: in the morning or in the evening. Focus on your biorhythms and individual capabilities. However, it is not recommended to engage in intense training on an empty stomach or before bed. Tabata workouts are very grueling and exhausting, so be prepared to feel tired after class. Especially at first, when the body is just adapting to the stress.
Is it possible to always do the same Tabata exercises?
Try change a set of Tabata exercises without repeating the same program more than three times in a row. Your body gets used to the load, so with the same workouts, their effectiveness gradually decreases. Change not only the set of exercises, but also their order. For example:
- 1 week Tabata: burpees, horizontal running, squats, 180 degree jumps
- Week 2 Tabata: running with high knees, push-ups, jumping lunges, sumo squats
- Week 3 Tabata: horizontal running, squats, running with shins, burpees
- Week 4 Tabata: 180 degree jumps, spider plank, running with high knees, jumping lunges
You can return to old patterns, but try to change the order and add new Tabata exercises. Below are several ready-made plans with different exercises.
What is important to know!
If the training is carried out according to the principle of 20 seconds work, 10 seconds rest, then this is still does not mean that this is truly a Tabata workout. For true Tabata you need to perform the exercises for 20 seconds. maximum your capabilities so that the workout becomes anaerobic. Your goal is the most repetitions in the least amount of time.
The load must be explosive and very intense, which is why Tabata training cannot be long-term. Usually 15-25 minutes is enough if you train at full strength. You can do timed Tabata intervals at a moderate pace, but for best results the workout should be short, fast and very intense. If you like long workouts, then alternate between 4 minutes of high intensity and 4 minutes of low intensity.
Tabata exercises + ready-made training plan
We offer you a ready-made training plan using the Tabata system for beginners, for advanced ones, as well as with an emphasis on the stomach, lower body, and upper body. We offer you 4 exercises for one workout: one exercise for each Tabata round (that is, one exercise is performed for 4 minutes - 8 cycles). Accordingly, the lesson will last about 20 minutes without warm-up or cool-down.
You can increase or decrease the duration of your workout, or replace the exercises with ones that are more suitable for you. You can also vary the execution scheme (more about this was written above), i.e. Do not repeat the same exercise for all 4 minutes, but alternate two or four exercises in one Tabata round. It doesn't matter how you structure your workout, the main thing is that you performed each approach to your maximum.
If you want to complement your Tabata workout other exercises, then we recommend looking at:
- Top 20 exercises for arms
- Top 50 Leg Exercises
- Top 50 exercises for abdominal muscles
Tabata training for intermediate level
Option 1:
- Kick forward backward (4 sets on each side)
- Elbow plank twists
Option 2:
- Skier
- Jumping in plank with legs raised
Tabata training for advanced levels
Option 1:
- Spider plank
Option 2:
- Push-ups (can be on your knees)
- Jumping lunges
Tabata workout with dumbbells
- Dumbbell squats (4 sets on each side)
- Dumbbell chest press
- Lunge with body rotation (4 sets on each side)
Tabata workout with emphasis on thighs and buttocks
- Plyometric Side Lunge (4 sets per side)
- Half squat leg spread
- Lunges in a circle (4 sets on each side)
Tabata workout with emphasis on the abdomen
Tabata workout focusing on arms, shoulders and chest
- Triceps push-ups (4 sets on each side)
- Push-ups left and right (can be done on your knees)
- Shoulder Touch Plank
Thanks for the gifsyoutube-channels:mfit , shortcircuits_fitness, FitnessType, Redefining Strength , Live Fit Girl, Luka Hocevar .
The effectiveness of Tabata training for weight loss
Tabata workouts are very intense, they dramatically increase your heart rate and maintain it at a high level throughout the entire session. So you can burn large amount of calories even for a short lesson. The exact number of calories burned is determined individually depending on your fitness level. As a rule, more experienced exercisers burn fewer calories than beginners. On average, you can burn 150 calories in 10 minutes of Tabata training.
But the most important advantage of Tabata training is not the high calorie consumption, but "afterburning effect". This means that your body will actively burn fat for another 48 hours after training, which will significantly speed up the process of losing excess weight. For example, regular cardio training at a medium pace does not give such an effect, so doing Tabata is much more productive for the result.
Tabata workouts are anaerobic exercise, so they do not provide negative impact on muscle tissue, in contrast to the same cardio training. At the same time, they perfectly train the heart muscle and increase endurance. In addition, such high-intensity interval training increases the sensitivity of muscle tissue to insulin, which means it simplifies the fat burning process.
How quickly you can lose weight with Tabata training depends on your metabolism, the initial percentage of body fat, the regularity of exercise and, of course, nutrition. Remember that to lose excess fat, you need to eat in a calorie deficit so that the body begins to break down fat for energy. The optimal rate of weight loss with Tabata training is 0.5 kg of fat per week. In the first week, a loss of 2-3 kg is possible due to getting rid of excess water in the body.
- This is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and burn body fat, while the risk of losing muscle tissue is minimal.
- The classes are short in time, and in terms of effectiveness they are not inferior to full-fledged hour-long programs.
- You will improve your aerobic (endurance) and anaerobic (muscle mass) performance.
- Tabata increases the sensitivity of muscle tissue to insulin, which means it simplifies the process fat burning.
- You can do Tabata training at home, on the street, on the playground, in the gym - anywhere.
- For Tabata training you do not need additional equipment; you can do it with your own body weight (but you can also use weights).
- Regular HIIT training reduces the risk of developing diabetes and helps fight depression.
- Training according to the Tabata protocol is very simple, clear and precise Due to their structure, studying with them is incredibly convenient.
Timers for Tabata training: 3 ready-made options
In order to successfully engage in Tabata training, you will need a special timer with a countdown. But where can you get a Tabata timer? We offer you 3 ready-made timer options for training according to the Tabata protocol.
The simplest thing is to download a free Tabata timer app for your smartphone. Programs simple, convenient and customizable. You can change the number of intervals, adjust the exercise and rest time, and the number of cycles. Exercises are accompanied by a sound signal, so you definitely won’t miss the start and end of your workout.
Applications with Tabata timers in Russian for Android:
- Tabata Timer: link.
- Tabata Timer for training: link.
Applications with Tabata timers in Russian for iPhone
- CrossFit Timer - interval Tabata timer: link.
- Tabata. Interval timer: link.
2. Tabata timer video
Another option for training using the Tabata protocol: take special videos on YouTube with a ready-made Tabata timer. They are designed specifically for Tabata training - all you need to do is turn on the video and start practicing. The disadvantage of this method is that you cannot set the intervals yourself.
a) Tabata timer for 1 round with music (4 minutes)
b) Tabata timer for 1 round without music (4 minutes)
c) Tabata timer for 30 minutes with music
If applications with Tabata timers and videos are not suitable for you, then you can take sites with ready-made timer programs. Just open the page, set the required intervals and start studying. Links will open in a new window:
- Website with a Tabata timer in Russian: https://fitnesdomaonline.ru/tabata/
- Website with Tabata timer in English: https://fitlb.com/tabata-timer
- Website with Tabata timer in English: http://www.tabatatimer.com
5 Tabata workout videos
If you are interested in Tabata training, be sure to watch our selection of videos: 8 intense HIIT workouts from Millionaire Hoy for 1000 calories.
We also offer you 5 ready-made Tabata training programs from 10 to 30 minutes for those who like to train with video trainers:
1. Tabata workout for 15 minutes
2. Fat burning workout using the Tabata system (8 minutes)
3. FitnessBlender: HIIT Tabata Cardio Workout (20 minutes)
4. Popsugar: Cardio and Sculpting Tabata Workout (30 minutes)
5. Christine Salus – Tabata Torture (30 minutes)