Tabata Squat Thrusts

[etothepii]

I had tried my first Tabata workout with squat thrusts the other noght, and it wa s darned easy ... not what I expected. I managrd 8 squat thrusts per 20 second interval, and I was barely winded by the end of the four minutes. This meant:

A. I'M IN PHENOMENAL SHAPE!!! (Hardly!)
B. I was working too slow.
C. I needed to add weight.
D. Squat thrusts are an inferior exercise for Tabata workouts.

Tonight, I tested theory B. I managed ten squat thrusts per exercise, even eleven during one interval. Well, I wanted to vomit when I was done. Pouring sweat, and sucking wind... This is the glory of Tabata about which I have heard!

So now, I think I'll do this workout twice per week! In terms of my theories above, C.) adding weight doesn't seem practicle or safe, and D.) squat thrusts are a good exercise, utilizing the legs, arms, and core.

As far as theory A is concerned, well, I'm getting there!!!:

The Tabata protocol is a tough and quick workout. I've used it when doing bodyweight squats, 100 meter sprints, on the elliptical trainer, and on the concept 2 rower. Never tried it with burpees which is a tad harder than squat thrusts.

Twice a week seems to me to be the maximum that you should do the Tabata protocol. Otherwise you'll burn yourself out and not even do it at all.

Keep us posted.

[etothepii]

Actually, I've just decided that because I'm doing HST right now, I'll only do Tabata once per week, the day before my rest day. I need to keep fresh in order to do my three full body workouts each week.

After this HST cycle, I'm considering 8 or so weeks of strength training. I plan mostly on weights, but I'm thinking of doing a Crossfit WOD once or twice a week too. As far as I see it, gaining strength in the weight lifting department will help making size gains in future HST cycles, and the Crossfit will give usable strength.

[Bulwark]

Never heard of Tabata...any more info?

Here's some general info on the Tabata protocol:

http://www.cbass.com/FATBURN.HTM