Workout Summary
- Main GoalLose Fat
- Workout TypeCardio
- Training LevelBeginner
- Program Duration6 weeks
- Days Per Week3
- Time Per Workout8 minutes
- Equipment RequiredBodyweight, Dumbbells
- Target Gender Male & Female
- Workout PDF Download Workout
Workout Description
Do you have 8 minutes to spare to train?
How about getting awesome results in those 8 minutes?
By now, Tabata may be a term you are familiar with. Traditionally performed within a 4 minute time span, this type of high intensity interval training (HIIT) has some rather unique characteristics.
The Research
Dr. Izumi Tabata developed this type of HIIT workout while conducting research at the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo. During his study he had two groups perform exercises of different protocols. Group one trained at a moderate intensity level working out 5 days per week for 6 weeks lasting 1 hour each. Group two trained at a very high intensity level for 4 days per week for 6 weeks lasting 4 minutes each.
Group two also utilized what is now known as the Tabata method: 20 seconds of high intensity with a 10 second rest between sets. 8 rounds of these high intensity and rest rotations made up the 4 minutes of training.
The results? After the 6 week study, group one increased aerobic capacity (cardiovascular improvements) but showed no anaerobic changes (muscular changes). Conversely, group 2 showed a higher increase in aerobic capacity as well as increases of the anaerobic systems.
How Tabata Can Work For You
So, how can you make Tabata work for you? How can you get more out of this remarkable training protocol so you can actually build some muscle and burn fat at the same time?
Below is an example Tabata training plan for a squat and push-up workout to burn fat and add muscle.
Be sure to perform a thorough warm-up of some light stationary bike or treadmill, push-ups, and bodyweight squats prior to performing this HIIT workout. Remember that during the high intensity portion you are giving your all with perfect form and should never break your technique.
Traditional Tabata Workout
Alternate between 20 seconds of squats with a moderate weight and 10 seconds of rest. Do 8 rounds adhering to this strict schedule for 4 minutes. Once complete, rest for 2 minutes and perform push-ups in the same manner.
| Exercise | Duration |
|---|---|
| Squat | 20 seconds |
| Rest | 10 seconds |
| Repeat for 7 more rounds for a total of 8 | |
| Rest | 2 minutes |
| Repeat for push-ups | |
Alternating Tabata Workout
For a serious challenge try alternating between squats and push-ups. So, you will perform a set of squats for 20 seconds, rest for 10 seconds and then do a set of push-ups for 20 seconds, rest and then return to a set of squats. Alternate each movement for a total of 8 rounds (4 minutes). Once you are complete, rest for 2 to 3 minutes and then do 1 more circuit for another 4 minutes and then you are done.
| Exercise | Duration |
|---|---|
| Squat | 20 seconds |
| Rest | 10 seconds |
| Push-Ups | 20 seconds |
| Rest | 10 seconds |
| Repeat for 7 more rounds for a total of 8 | |
| Rest | 2-3 minutes |
| Repeat entire circuit | |
Questions about Tabata style training? Post your questions in the comments below.
21 Comments
Hi Brad
I have a question regarding the sets like you said 8 rounds each, but I am unable to perform complete 8 sets of pushups, so please let me know how I can manage it. Or suggest me any any alternate variation of pushups. Thanks in advance.
Waqas- I would adjust the pushup method you're using in order to complete the desired amount of sets. Instead of a conventional pushup, here are a couple push up variations that you might want to try:
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/exercises/wall-push-up
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/exercises/incline-push-ups.html
Then, there is always the kneeling push up version for beginners. Let me know if you need anything else!
How many calories does this 8minute squats-pushups tabata burn?
Hi Brad
can we combine squat and pushup
squat
pushup 20 sec
10 sec break
Repeat for 7 more rounds for a total of 8
regards
paul
I tried this last night. I was struggling on 6th set for the alternating tabata but I managed to finish the exercise. I will incorporate this exercise with my program and maybe substitute it with some of my cardio days.
hey brad can i do this workout daily for fast result ?
That completely depends on your experience level and exactly what type of load you use - not to mention what other mode of exercise you are currently doing.
Hi Brad, can i do this workout or other HIIT workout when I'm fasting , before my eating window ? Thanks :)
Hi Hamza. Well that depends. You may want a little something in the tank when doing something as intense as Tabata.
I can do it without eating , I just wanna know if it's dangerous to train like this , and if it's more benefit for fat loss.
thanks a lot
No, not dangerous, but you will definitely need to be well hydrated before you start.
hi! i'm familiar with the tabata method. but i have question that nobody could give me 100% sure about it.
can i do a tabata 8 min train, and then after do a workout plan? does it have benefits or should i do the two separate things in diferent days?
Tiago,
I would strength train first and then maybe throw a Tabata in as a finisher.
My favorite workout method!
Brad - do you know how many calories you'd expect to burn doing this routine? How many times per week would you recommend doing this routine for fat loss?
Tony,
I would start with 2 or 3 to get used to the routine and then ramp up the intensity from there.
Hey Brad, great content once again. I am currently doing 5x5 type of workout posted on M&S. Could I do this tabata workout after weights or is it better to it on off days? If done on the days I do weights, will it add some more volume aiding for hypertrophy as well?
George, yes!
You can either do it after training or on separate days. Aiding hypertrophy depends on the amount of volume you are doing for your normal weight training sessions. I would venture to say that it will only benefit you. The body is extremely adaptive.
Hi brad. I have a question. Can you do 3 days push ups and squats and the other 3 days pull ups and squats with 1 hour of cardio before hand. Will this help me Lois eweighy ans gain muscle.
Could i merge this routine to a simple routine A/B/A consists of five workouts of each made be steve ??
You can work Tabata training into pretty much any workout plan. I run a traditional 4 day muscle building split and add Tabata in 2 days per week.