All-in-one workouts: How to build strength, stamina, and flexibility anywhere
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College students need workouts that efficiently combine our multiple goals: strength, stamina, and flexibility. And we need on-the-go options.
As a personal trainer (in addition, Iâm studying exercise science and biology), I often meet people who are motivated to work out but are overwhelmed by the possibilities and confused about how to get started. Thatâs why Iâve designed three full-body circuit workouts for three different locations:
- Your gym
- Your residence hall or room
- Your local park
Circuit training targets different muscle groups in turn. It doesnât require rest between sets, so it enables sustained cardiovascular effort. These workouts are adaptable to your level of fitness. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring water. Hydration is important before, during, and after your workout. Now get going.
In your gym
The great thing about working out in a fitness facility is all that equipment: more options! This workout includes exercises you might not have tried before.
Warm up
- Jog, walk, or row
- Windmills
- Squats
Workout
- Single dumbbell deadlift
- Single-arm supported row
- Seated low rows
- Split squats
Cool down
- Quadricep stretch
In your park
Shake up the routine and take your workouts into the college quad or a nearby park.
Warm up
- Jog or walk
- Standing knee-to-chest pulls
- Arm circles
Workout
- Split squats
- Incline pushups
- Tricep dips
- Split jumps
Cool down
- Supine knee-to-chest holds
In your room
Great news: You can get fit without ever setting foot in a gym! This circuit workout will have you sweating and strengthening in no time.
Warm up
- Jumping jacks
- Quadricep stretch
- Crossed hamstring stretch
Workout
- Push ups
- Frog jumps
- Lunges
- Toe touches
Cool down
- Downward dog
- Upward dog
Get help or find out more
Fitness programs: American Council on Exercise
Easy tips to get active: American Heart Association
How much physical activity do adults need?:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)