The former World Fitness Federation pro, Karina Elle, transitioned from cross-country running to bodybuilding and now prefers plyometric workouts over any other form of training.

In an interview with Muscle and Fitness, Elle said, "My plyometric shred routine is my favorite type of quickie workout because you get the biggest bang for your buck."

She further explained, "It works your whole body, burns fat, and, most important, you get that ‘endorphingasm’ and feel good the rest of the day."

She believes that plyometrics provides the benefits of both cardio and resistance training. Elle stated, "Take 12 to 20 minutes and just go through it really fast and see how sweaty you get. This is, I like to say, hit it and quit it."

The former cross-country runner's plyometric exercise includes six specific exercises, where she picks 4 or more at a time to make a circuit. She performs each activity for 1 minute, with 3 to 5 repetitions. 

Here are the six activities in Elle's plyometric workout regimen.

• Lateral jump-over to train quads and hip flexors.
• Football shuffle targets hamstrings and calves.
• Lunges and single-leg knee-ups allow focus on quads and glutes.
• Power roundhouse kick target core and hip flexors.
• Ski jumps for core and glutes.
• Box jump squat to aim at the glutes and quads.

Well, apart from her workout routine, Elle's diet also plays a crucial role in maintaining her toned body.

Karina Elle’s diet

Karina Elle eats a well-balanced and clean diet. In a day, she eats three big meals and 4-5 small meals. Her diet includes plenty of fruits and veggies. She also fulfills her required protein and carbohydrate intake by consuming chicken, eggs, tofu, shrimp, and sweet potatoes.

Her diet supplies the nutrients her body needs for better functioning and provides energy throughout the day and during her workout.

She also avoids highly processed foods, junk food, and sugary drinks. Regarding her diet, she said, "Whatever you eat, your body will adapt to and crave. So enjoy the pleasure in learning how to make delicious foods with a healthy twist and knowing exactly what’s in them."

Karina Elle also believes in treating herself and said she loves munching on French fries and classic burgers.

Written by

Supradeep Dutta

Edited by

Souvik Roy