December can be a really busy time of year, between the parties, end of year deadlines, family gatherings and different festivities it leaves little time for exercise (we understand).
And even though making time for physical activity is very much encouraged, it can be difficult to say no to all the festive opportunities and events at this time of year.
So how about a workout that gets you moving for a shorter amount of time?
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT training became popular a few years ago as a way of exercising for short amounts of time but getting big results.
This workout will be sure to get your heart and lungs pumping!
The exercises
Squat jumps
Start standing with your feet just over hip-width apart, then lower yourself into a squat. Then you are going to explosively jump up from the squat and as you land you are going straight into your next squat, then repeat- many times.
Bicycle kicks
Lie on your back and take your hand up to your temples. Bring both knees in towards your chest. Extend one leg along the floor while bending the other leg and bring it in to meet the opposite elbow. Then swap the legs over. Focus on contracting the core muscles and getting a good twist in the torso, its going to burn!
Walkouts
Start standing, bend at the hips (and knees if you need to, depending on your flexibility) lowering your torso until your hands reach the floor. Walk the hands forward until you are in a full plank position, then walk yourself back to standing- and repeat.
Lunge pops
Jump yourself into a lunge position, then jump up bringing the feet back to centre, and repeat alternating the forward leg.
Plank steps
Start in a plank position, then you are going to lift your right foot, take it slightly out to the side and tap the floor with your toe. Then replace the foot and repeat on the other side. Sounds easy enough, however, while you are doing this you need to try and keep your hips as still as you possibly can.
Perform each of these exercises at pretty much maximum effort for 20-30 seconds, followed by a 30-40 seconds rest. Go through each exercise as a circuit and try to go through 3-5 rounds depending on your fitness levels/ how much time you have.
This can be anywhere between a 15 minute workout to a 25 minute workout!
Enjoy!
