Circuit training is one of the best ways to get into shape. It is dynamic, and uses a variety of activities to keep things interesting and work all the muscles differently. You can develop aerobic stamina, strength and flexibility using circuit training.

Circuit Training for a Total Body Workout

Circuit training involves performing a certain exercise for a short period of time - such as 2 minutes - and then moving onto another exercise in a circuit fashion. For example, you could have 10 different activities to perform in succession without rest in between. Each activity is completely different, and only lasts a couple of minutes. This works a variety of muscles and body parts, and keeps the activity dynamic and interesting. Here are a few activities to involve in a circuit for a total body workout:

Burpees
This exercise will get your heart pumping very quickly, and involves the entire body - including the core. Begin by standing upright with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your body by slightly bending your knees in order to give you the power to jump vertically. Without holding the semi-squat position, propel yourself up in the air as high as you can while reaching for the ceiling. Once you land back on the ground, immediately get down into the push-up position by putting your hands on the ground and jumping back with both feet at the same time. Do one push-up by lowering your body to the ground so your nose touches the ground. After completing one push-up, immediately jump back towards your hands, get up and jump vertically again. Repeat these moves in succession without pausing in between.

Toe Taps
For this exercise, you will need either a Bosu ball, or even a stair. This activity will involve tapping the Bosu ball or stair with your foot, which will alternate. Begin by standing in front of the object, and continuously tap the top of the object with one foot, while the other foot is jumping on the ground in front of it. This will happen simultaneously - as one foot touches the object, the other foot will be touching the floor at the same time.

Dumbbell Squats and Rotations
You will require dumbbells - or even water bottles - for this exercise. Begin by holding a dumbbell in each hand, and spread your legs apart so that they are wider than hip-width. Hold the dumbbells in between your legs as you lower your body into a squat position (your knees should be bent at a 90 degree angle). Raise your body so your legs are straight, and then rotate your shoulders, torso and arms to one side. Return to the center, and get back into the squat position. Repeat this movement on both sides.

These are only a few of the many different exercises that you can incorporate into a circuit training program that will work the entire body. For the most return on investment, perform these exercises at great intensity so that your heart rate is really pumping and your muscles get a great burn.