Tabata 201

In the first part of this two-part series, Tabata 101, we discussed the Tabata Protocol. Today we will extend the conversation and focus on how you can teach it in a physical education setting.

Tabata… a HIIT for getting fit.

Imagination Station

Imagine a PE class that operates like a wellness center. One where motivated students choose from and enjoy participating in various fitness stations (weight training, yoga, fitness walking, cycling, etc.). Where each station is led by certified student instructors focused on helping their peers develop personal fitness skills, knowledge, and confidence. Read on to make this dream your reality.

Tabata Refresher

Tabata is a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program designed to get maximum fitness benefits in a short-duration workout, making it a great option when you are pressed for time or want to add variety to a training program. Accordingly, Tabata can be a meaningful part of a well-rounded high school PE program.

Tabata in High School PE

Tabata in high school physical education consists of two progressive instructional activities:

Basic Training

Here students master fundamental safety protocols and movement techniques associated with the unit content. Students experiment with and master basic exercises. This may take multiple lessons as the teacher leads students through the mastery process. Tabata Basic Training focuses on SHAPE Standards 1, 2, and 3.

Create a Workout

Here students create a series of personalized Tabata workouts by applying fundamentals mastered in basic training. As part of the process, students practice, refine, and then lead classmates through their created workouts. Challenge students to create nine 4-minute Tabata workouts (3 workouts with 2 exercises, 3 with 4 exercises, and 3 with 8 exercises). Tabata Create a Workout focuses on SHAPE Standards 4 and 5.

Tabata Teaching Tips

• Encourage students to give Tabata a chance to help them improve aerobic and muscle fitness.
• Focus students on safety, performance cues, and personal fitness goals.
• Modify activities to ensure safety, individual success, and motivation.

Get Equipped

• Fitness Equipment Options from Sportime
• Exercise Mats
• Exercise and Organizational Spots
• Stopwatches and Heart Rate Monitors

Share Your Knowledge

What are your experiences teaching Tabata? What advice would you give someone who has never taught Tabata but wants to? Post a response below and let us know!

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