7 Minute Workout App

Have you guys heard of the seven minute workout? I first read about it on the New York Times blog several months ago and since I am all about fast-paced, high intensity workouts, it intrigued me.

(Source)

Using only bodyweight exercises, the workout alternates exercises that target muscles in the upper body with those that target large lower body muscles.

According to an article found in the May-June issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal about the workout, scientists found that “even a few minutes of training at an intensity approaching your maximum capacity produces molecular changes within muscles comparable to those of several hours of running or bike riding.”

Fast forward a few months and I completely forgot about the workout until I read about it again in Redbook magazine at the gym this morning. The article in Redbook mentioned the free 7 Minute Workout App and I immediately downloaded it for today’s workout.

I loved it!!!

The app was incredibly easy to follow and since you only complete each exercise for 30 seconds, boredom never crept in and I was entertained the entire time.

The app explains the exercises to you just in case something might be unfamiliar. It also includes video demonstrations of each exercise to ensure that you perform the exercises with proper form.

Plus, it does all of the counting for you so there’s no need for a timer!

It’s really easy to set up and use and I texted my sister as I was walking out the door at the gym to tell her all about it. If you’re looking for a fast-paced workout that you can do anywhere, I think this might be right up your alley. This would be a great travel workout option!

I don’t use a lot of apps when I work out, but since I found myself freaking out over this app, I think I need to look into more fitness apps!

Here are a few more apps I’ve used in the past and enjoyed:

• Full Fitness: This app is not free ($1.99), but it’s a great resource. It categorizes exercises by muscle group or equipment, which makes it really easy to assemble a workout that targets your abs or one that uses kettle bells or something of the sort. I use it when I don’t want to really think about my workout.
• RunKeeper: RunKeeper is a free app that tracks runs, walks, bike rides, hikes and more using the GPS in your phone. The app also reports your pace per mile and can give you audio splits by time or distance during your workout. You can also set goals and play your music through the app.
• Active: I find this free app 10,000 times more organized and user-friendly than the Active.com website! I use it when I want to search for races or other athletic events in my area or places where I may be traveling in the future.

Question of the Morning

• What is your favorite fitness app?