How to Burpee
What is a burpee?
Developed in the 1930s by a physiologist called Royal H. Burpee, the burpee is great full-body exercise to tone your whole body, build strength and improve cardiovascular endurance.
For every single burpee you perform, you will work your arms, back, chest, core, glutes, quads and hamstrings, so it’s a great exercise to up your energy expenditure and tone your whole body. Some research suggests that the high-intensity nature of burpees can help burn up to 50% more fat than moderate exercise, so if you’re looking to burn fat and tone up, try incorporating burpees into your exercise routine.
Further benefits include increased balance and coordination which will help you perform at your best in everyday activities, plus maintain a healthier heart and lungs.
The World record for burpees performed in a 24-hour period is held by Cameron Dorn from South Carolina who did 10,105 one day in 2014.
Don't worry about breaking records yet though! If you're new to burpees, check out our top tips and how-to guide below.
Burpee tips
- As burpees work the whole body we recommend warming up before you start with some dynamic stretches and a few minutes of cardio
- Keep your abs locked in when you perform the movement to help keep your body in a stable braced position.
- Don't hold your breathe - keep breathing!
- Place hands on the floor first, before pushing your legs out into plank position.
How to do a Burpee
Level: Beginners
Equipment: no equipment required
- Stand up straight then drop into a squat position with your hands in front of your feet.
- Keeping your arms straight, kick your feet our behind you into a plank position.
- Bring your feet back towards your hands so you're back in the squat position.
- Jump with explosive force as high as you can so your feet leave the ground. That's one rep.
- Complete the required amount of reps.
If you’re not sure if any of the above exercises are suitable for you, please consult your doctor before you start it. Need guidance on how to perform the exercise? Ask a personal trainer at your gym.