These days, every industry has its own set of colloquial language and commonly used terms. The fitness industry is no different. For those who are new to working out, turning up to a fitness class, gym or even 1:1 training session can be a little confusing due to some of the terms, abbreviations and acronyms used. Who thought that exercise could be so complicated?
After putting out a poll on social media, I decided to attempt to decipher some of the most commonly confused terms, abbreviations and acronyms to hopefully reduce confusion, enhance understanding, and enrich your next exercise experience.
AMRAPs – AMRAPs stands for “as many rounds (or reps) as possible.” Individuals are instructed to complete a particular exercise or set of exercises for a specified period of time and record how many reps or sets they completed during that time frame. This exercise method is typically used to increase workout intensity and is a great way to monitor your progress.
EMOMs – EMOMs stands for “every minute on the minute.” Individuals are instructed to complete a particular exercise or set of exercises in one minute. If exercises are completed in 40 seconds, then the remaining 20 seconds of the minute can be used for rest. Individuals repeat the exercise for a certain number of minutes trying to maintain within the one-minute time frame. This exercise method is a great way to maintain a high intensity and an excellent way to create your own home workouts.
Reps vs. Sets – Repetitions (or reps) refer to how many movements of one exercise is completed in a given time, while “sets” refers to how many rounds you complete. For example, ten squats for four sets equal a total of 40 squats per workout.
Static vs. Dynamic Stretching – Stretching is a super important component of any exercise regimen. For newcomers especially, it is highly recommended that you NEVER skip the warm-up/initial stretching phase of a workout. The “warm-up” is where we prepare the body for exercise, which can significantly reduce the risk of injury during the workout. Static stretches are generally completed without any travel movement and typically focus on one main muscle/muscle groups (for example, a standing quadriceps stretch). Dynamic stretching encompasses more movement and sometimes travels (for example, walking lunges or walking high kicks) and tends to focus on multiple muscle groups.
Posterior vs. Anterior – These are anatomical terms used to describe the front of the body (anterior) and back side of the body (posterior). The term posterior chain is often used to describe the muscles that make up the back of the legs, calves, hamstrings, glutes, lower, mid and upper back.
Fast Count vs. Slow Count – Fast count refers to counting every single rep regardless of whether it is being completed by the left or right side of the body. A slow count is a counting method whereby one repetition requires reps from the right and left side. For example, 20 slow count high knees is the same as 40 fast count high knees.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions that we trainers get asked, and I hope this clears up some of your questions. At Camp Gladiator, we focus on a variety of exercise methods to ensure that no workout is the same and every muscle group is involved at each workout. Exercising should be fun and enjoyable, not confusing and frustrating.
If you haven’t yet found an exercise modality that is enjoyable, I urge you to grab your mat and find a Camp Gladiator location. Not only are our workouts effective, but our community is supportive, engaging, encouraging and inclusive. With the kids now back at school, it is time to start seriously thinking about your OWN health and fitness. Why not bring the kids along, too?
If you have ever wondered what Camp Gladiator is all about, now is the time to try us out as we are about to launch the deal of the decade where you can try one whole month of unlimited fitness classes for just $10. Contact me or simply come along to one of my locations listed below.
LOCATION & TIMES
Lake Nona Family Dentistry – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 5:15 a.m.
Spring of Life United Methodist Church – Tuesday, Thursday 5:45 p.m.
Moss Park Elementary School – Monday, Wednesday 6:30 p.m.
Vernice Salveron-Gasper
Phone: 321-947-9948
Email: vernicesalveron@campgladiator.com
