If you like to lift weights more than run, like I do, then cardio bursts are an ideal way to get cardio done while you spend time doing what you love – pumping iron.
Cardio Burst: performing short, high-intensity bouts of cardio in between sets of resistance training exercises.
Cardio bursts give you all the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), minus the mental battle of pushing yourself to the limits for 10-20 minutes straight. Also, if you like the benefits of circuit training (high intensity, increased heart rate throughout, time-efficient, etc.), adding cardio bursts to your lifting days can be an awesome way to make time fly by and accomplish two goals in the same workout.
Example:
Perform one set (10-12 reps) of each exercise within each group of exercises, followed by your choice of one cardio burst (adjust time based on personal conditioning). Rest for 30 seconds, and repeat 2-3 times before moving to the next group of exercises.
- Back squat
- Dumbbell bench press
- Lat. pulldown
- Dumbbell walking lunge
- Military press
- Barbell bent over row
- Barbell deadlift
- Incline bench press
- Single-arm dumbbell row
Cardio Burst Examples: Jump rope for 30-60 seconds; sprint for 20- 30 seconds on a spin bike, track, or treadmill; treadmill resisted sprint for 15-30 seconds (leaving a treadmill off, use your legs to push the belt as fast as you can); tuck jumps for 20-30 seconds; jumping jacks for 30-60 seconds; etc.
If you’re new to this type of high-intensity training, make sure you allow enough time for your heart rate to recover before starting the next set of resistance training exercises!
