by Wilhelm Schnotz

Created on: June 28, 2008

Circuit training is possibly the most flexible and dynamic method of physical training. The many benefits of circuit training come from its flexibility, as you can incorporate any exercise into you training program via a circuit. Improved fitness, general health and reduced stress are the major benefits of circuit training; however these only scrape the surface of the advantages of this method of training which we will now discuss.

What is circuit training?

Circuit training involves completing a set of different exercises in a specific order. The exercises that are used might include sprints, jumping, weight lifting, cycling, exercise ball and body weight exercises and a wide range of other exercises. The circuit can be varied to suit the needs of any individual and thus can focus on their weaknesses and turn them over time into strengths. The duration, intensity, frequency, type and order of the exercises can be altered to achieve this goal.

What are the general benefits of circuit training?

Like any other physical activity there are numerous benefits of circuit training. The include but are not limited to:
- improved fitness,
- reduced risk of heart disease,
- healthier heart, lungs and bones
- better aerobic capacity, strength and flexibility
- reduced incidence of a variety of health conditions
- better mental health

What are the specific benefits of circuit training?

Due to the structured, but easily varied nature of circuit training there are a number of benefits that are almost unique to it. Here are a few of these benefits:
- training on a circuit is exciting due to the variability of the circuit
- a circuit can be set up with little or no equipment
- groups of people (like at a gym or school) can easily train on a circuit and rotate what station' they are at with ease
- circuits can be individualized to suit the training demands of any sport or activity
- many different muscle groups can be stimulated in a single workout
- circuit training is very efficient and as such a session can take a short amount of time and still provide maximum health/fitness benefits
- any exercise can be done in the session (stretching, weights, body weight exercises and aerobic exercises)

Of course, as good as circuit sessions are they do have a few disadvantages, but these are few and far between in comparison to the numerous benefits the training provides. Circuit training is a practical, variable and healthy activity and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys physical activity.

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