Tabata scoring

[Jeryd Leuck]

Why is the least number of reps the score for tabata work outs? I find that when I am doing this and competing with a friend that I will game it and not do as much work as I can. If I hit a low number there is no reason to do more the next round.

Why not add up the total number and divide by sets (8)? That way you would have a reason to pump out more and more. Making each rep count.

[Brandon Oto]

So you don't do 20 reps the first round, 10 the second, and 4 for the rest.

[Derek Heinonen]

I personally just add all my rounds for a total, which I use as a score, and make note of the first and last rounds.

I don't believe in "pacing" for tabata intervals...

[Scott Allen Hanson]

There are actually two different scoring protocols for Tabata WOD's: score the lowest round (Tabata This), and score the total for all eight rounds (Tabata Something Else). I think that with experience, the two scores' totals will converge as you get a handle on how many reps you can hold for eight rounds.

[Skylar Cook]

Tabata is a multi-function workout. It improves aerobic and anaerobic systems, while increasing lactic acid metabolism/tolerance. Ripping it up the first round results in a more anaerobic workout, as you hit your lactic acid threshold quickly when doing a max set. Pacing yourself works more aerobic (though still lots of anaerobic as you're working above your VO2 max). Lactic acid tolerance will build either way.

As with anything, vary it up.