Burpee-with-Carl-Paoli-at-Invictus-Athletes-Camp

Burpees are the one exercise that polarises the fitness community, either you love them or you love to hate them. Regardless of whether you love or hate burpees, there is no denying that they are one of the most effective, functional fitness movements you can do. Why are they so awesome? Check out our Top 5!

5 Reasons Why Burpees Are Awesome!

1. You can do them anywhere!

Can’t make it into the box today? No barbell or jump rope? No worries! It’s time to hit some Burpees! One of the best movements to hit on the road or away from the box. Burpees are the go to body weight movement, perfect when you don’t have any equipment or can’t make it into the gym.

2. Work your WHOLE body

From core to extremity, the burpee has it all! From laying flat onto the floor, jumping onto your feet, opening those hips and then launching into the air. Your whole body gets involved while doing a burpee. No isolation exercises here, get every muscle in your body moving and your heart pumping!

3. Develop your ability to move well

With burpees working your whole body, they will teach you how to move correctly and efficiently. Got a 7 minute burpee AMRAP for today’s WOD? You better learn how to move efficiently, because you don’t want to waste any of our energy on unnecessary movement. Nail the movement patterns for your burpees and this efficacy will convert to other movements in your workout. Whether snatches or box jumps, you will realise the importance of activating your hips a central concept to moving well in everything you do.

4.  Build your engine

Want to boost your conditioning? Add burpees into your training and hit them consistency with intensity, to boost your endurance. Try out 1 minute Max Effort Burpees, test and retest. Each time you hit the 1 minute, look to beat your previous score. A simple and easy way to boost your conditioning and build your engine.

5. Feel like a Bad A$$

There aren’t many other movements that absolutely kick your a$$. Want to feel like a bad ass, try out the 100 Burpees for time. You legs will burn, arms will shake and will find yourself laying in a pool of your own sweat! But you will finish with a cheeky grin on your face and have stories to tell your grandkids about how much of a bad a$$ you were!

Here is a good guide for your levels competing 100 Burpees for time:

12+ minutes: You’re an athlete in training! Way to work hard, and don’t stop pushing.
10-12 minutes: You’re an athlete! Awesome job getting past those mental blocks.
8-10 minutes: You’re a super athlete! You’re strong and in great conditioning shape.
6-8 minutes: You’re a total badass! You have some serious burpee skills.
4-6 minutes: You’re the ultimate badass! Be very, very proud.