The Tabata Method

Tabata is the name of a Japanese researcher who discovered an interesting way to increase both anaerobic and aerobic pathways at the same time. It's an excellent program for any looking to lose fat quickly.

This training method is so simple, yet so incredibly difficult. What is it? It's simple: take one exercise and perform it in the following manner:

1) For twenty seconds, work at maximum intensity

2) Rest for ten seconds

3) Repeat seven more times

That's it! Although it sounds easy, it's guaranteed to be the hardest four minute workout of your life.

Try this method with any of the following exercises:

1) Rower

2) Jump Squats

3) Thrusters (Take two dumbbells and hold them at shoulder height. Squat down while keeping the dumbbells on your shoulders. As you rise up, press the bells to the overhead lockout position. Ten or twelve pound DB's should work for most women. Men can try twenty-fives or thirties)

For the nerds: here's Tabata's original publication: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8897392