Row row row your… Concept 2?

Excitement abounds:  we were assigned an interval workout for today!

I’ve always been a bit of an odd duck because interval training has always been my idea of fun.  There’s something about the “go really really fast and then go really really slow” rhythm that makes me smile.

I opted to get on my rowing machine for the training (it’s gone unused enough that sometimes I hear it crying in the basement from loneliness).  We were assigned one paltry interval — 15 seconds of work and 45 seconds of rest — but I did 5.  I figured I was already there and doing it, so I might as well toss a few more in, just for kicks.  I’m an overachiever like that. 

A number of years back I discovered Tabata workouts — sprint for 20 seconds, rest 10 seconds, repeat at least 8 times — and was amazed that all the research said that 4 minutes of workout could be just as effective as a long workout.  I mean, really?  A 4-minute training session? That’s nothing!  Sounds like the easiest workout ever!

Until you do it, of course.  The first 3 intervals go by and your brain is still thinking, “I got this, no problem…”. During the 4th and 5th intervals, you start to hear alarms going off in your brain, and once you get through the 6th, you’re just hoping to pass out soon because that would be preferable to the pain you’re currently in.

I love how this training protocol can you leave you absolutely decimated — there’s something a little masochistic about it.  And you can do it with anything:  running, biking, rowing, squats, burpees, pushups, crunches!  Versatile and take-anywhere!  I’m starting to sound like an infomercial!

For those who haven’t ever done it, I know you’re mocking me in your head right now.  So, go ahead.  Try it. I’ll wait. And then report back.  I promise I won’t say “I told you so”.  

Well, I won’t say it too loudly, at least.

And don’t worry, you’ll be on the ground, breathing so hard you won’t notice, anyway.