Circuit training is a high volume (repetitions), low resistance (weight) workout with short rest intervals and is geared primarily at improving muscle tone and definition, while improving cardiovascular fitness. This workout involves exercising all major muscle groups (stations) in one continuous cycle, alternating between the different areas to allow for muscle recovery and to force your heart to work harder in pumping blood (and oxygen) to these constantly changing areas. Given the nature of your short rest periods, it is strongly recommended you use machines that do not require much time to select your weight (as opposed to free weights) and that the machines are in close proximity to each other.

Generally, circuit training programs comprise nine to 12 weightlifting stations arranged to target all major muscle groups from largest to smallest. At each exercise station, you should perform eight to 20 repetitions and take short rests lasting no longer than 30 seconds as you progress from one station to the next. Additionally, using weightlifting loads of 40 to 60 percent of your maximal ability ensures performance of an adequate number of repetitions for each exercise. Depending on your fitness level and preference, you can perform your circuit one to three times.

Due to the lack of rest that circuit training demands, one maintains elevated heart rates for the entire period of exercise. The combination of weight training and increased cardiovascular effort makes circuit training a beneficial type of cross training. One gains muscle through the resistance training. The exerciser increases his/her cardiovascular endurance during the slightly elevated heart rate that is maintained in between sets and throughout the overall program. One burns high amounts of calories during the high exertion periods of his/her