circuit
SER-kit
/ˈsɜː.kɪt/
A established journey or series of exercises completed in rotation; a closed path through which electric current flows.
In fitness, circuit training involves moving systematically from one exercise station to another with minimal rest between.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'circuitus', meaning a going around, from 'circum' (around) and 'ire' (to go). The word moved from judicial routes and electrical loops to fitness, describing a circular sequence of training stations.
Word relationships
- rotation: Emphasizes the circular sequence of switching activities.
- loop: Implies a circular track or repeated sequence of actions.
- straight line: A linear path without circular repetition.
Commonly confused with
- circle: A circle is a geometric shape, whereas a circuit is a functional path or sequence executed in order.
Word family
- circuitry (noun): A system of electric circuits.
Collocations
- circuit training
- complete a circuit
- circuit workout
- short circuit
Example sentences
- "Our instructor designed a ten-station bodyweight circuit that kept everyone moving continuously." Fitness routine
Memory hook
Circum (around) + go = going around the room through different exercises. Circum-ire: going all the way around the exercise stations.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a single set of one exercise executed repeatedly without changing equipment.
Fun facts
- Circuit training was originally developed at the University of Leeds in 1953 as an efficient indoor conditioning system.
Related words
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