Do you ever feel completely and utterly confused by all of the unique phrases and acronyms in the fitness industry? There’s a lot to know and keep up with since new terms often emerge over time as different training styles are developed.
Our goal is to help you succeed on your fitness journey, and we want you to be just as fluent in the language of fitness as we are. Maybe you’ve read a workout description with an unfamiliar word? Perhaps you’ve heard your trainer use a new-to-you expression? Either way, we’re here to break down and help you understand the top 32 most common fitness terms!
Aerobic
A term for a cardiovascular exercise that focuses on the body's use of oxygen. Some examples of aerobic exercise include walking, running, cycling, rowing, and lifting weights.
AMRAP
This stands for As Many Reps As Possible or As Many Rounds As Possible. It’s a training structure where you try to complete as many reps of an exercise as you can. With rounds, it’s the same concept, but you try to complete as many rounds as possible in a given timeframe.
Anaerobic
A term for quick bursts of energy at maximum effort for a short period of time, enabling your body to break down glucose for energy without the use of oxygen. Some examples of anaerobic exercise include sprinting and heavy weightlifting.
BMR
This stands for Basal Metabolic Rate. It’s a term that’s used to measure the minimum number of calories your body needs to simply function, like breathing and maintaining your temperature. This term is also known as your metabolism.
BPM
This stands for Beats Per Minute. It’s a term that refers to how fast your heart is beating per minute. It’s a good indicator of how hard you’re working during your workout.
Circuit
A form of training where you work through several exercises, one after the next, with a quick break after each exercise.
Dynamic
This is when you move your muscles through a specific range of motion to complete an exercise. Some examples include climbing stairs, walking lunges, and core twists. (Dynamic is also a common term for stretches.)
EMOM
This stands for Every Minute On The Minute. It’s a training structure that gives you 1 minute to complete a certain number of reps. The remaining time serves as a recovery until the 60 seconds are over, then you’d repeat with another 1-minute-long round of exercises.
Endurance
The ability to endure a specific activity for a prolonged period of time.
Fartlek
A Swedish term that means “speed play.” With this form of training, your speed changes spontaneously throughout your workout.
HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
A form of training that consists of quick, intense bursts of exercise to keep your heart rate elevated.
Interval
A period of either activity or rest.
Lactate Threshold
The intensity of exercise at which lactate begins to build up in your blood faster than it can be removed. This is a popular method for improving your endurance performance.
LISS (Low-Intensity Steady State)
A form of training where you exercise at a low-to-moderate endurance level for a long period of time. Some examples of LISS training include walking, hiking, jogging, swimming, and cycling. The Costa Rica 5K Training Series with Tommy Rivs Puzey is a great program for this type of training!
Max Heart Rate
The maximum number of beats your heart can make when exercising. To get a close estimate, subtract your age from 220.
Metabolic Conditioning (or metcon)
A method of training that utilizes short bouts of high-intensity work to increase metabolic demand and increase energy usage. The goal of a metcon session should be to achieve and sustain a high level of effort over a short period of time, with as little rest as possible in order to make your body more energy-efficient.
This refers to all of the calories you burn through your daily physical activity, excluding exercise. Some examples include things like cleaning your house, playing with your kids, mowing your lawn, or weeding your garden.
Plyometrics
A form of exercise that involves the repeated, rapid stretching and contracting of your muscles to increase your muscle power. Plyometrics consist of explosive movements, like squat jumps, burpees, box jumps, clap push-ups, and lateral bounds.
Rep
One complete motion of a specific exercise.
Round
A round is one time through a circuit or set of movements.
RMR
This stands for Resting Metabolic Rate. It’s a term that’s used to measure the number of calories your body burns while resting.
RPE
This stands for Rate of Perceived Exertion. It’s used to measure an individual's intensity while exercising. At iFit, we use a scale from 1–10, with 1 representing easy and 10 standing for maximum effort.
RPM
This stands for Rotations Per Minute. It’s a common term for cycling and the elliptical, where it tracks how many rotations you’re completing and how fast you’re pedaling. RPM is the same thing as cadence.
Self-Myofascial Release
This is also known as foam rolling, where you use a tool (like a foam roller or massage ball) to self-massage and relieve pain from your muscles or joints.
Set
A group of consecutive repetitions. Example: I did 5 sets of 10 reps.
Sprint
When you run a short distance at a fast pace in a limited period of time.
Static
This is when you contract your muscle without moving your joints. You focus on the tension while holding a position for a specific amount of time. Some examples include planks, wall sits, and calf raise holds. (Static is also a common term for stretches.)
Steady State
A cardio term used to describe a continuous, steady effort.
Superset
Two exercises that target opposing muscle groups, performed back to back, without rest. (Note: A superset is not the same as a circuit.)
Tabata
This is a type of HIIT workout that’s highly effective, because of its work-to-rest ratio. The format follows 4-minute blocks (or 8 sets of intervals), as you push for 20 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds.
Vo2 Max
A term that refers to the maximum amount of oxygen an individual can utilize during intense exercise.
Work-to-Rest Ratio
This is the comparison between how much time you’re working to the amount of time you’re resting. For example, if you’re running for 30 seconds and resting for 60 seconds, then your work-to-rest ratio is 1:2.
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
You might also like
iFIT x F45: Studio Training Now Streaming on iFIT
iFIT teamed up with F45 Training to bring you an exciting fitness collaboration: iFIT members now have access to F45 Training’s most popular studio workouts and brand-new iFIT x F45 originals. Whether you’re looking for high-energy cardio, strength-based training, or seeking recovery sessions, you now have it all in the iFIT Library.Earn a free F45 Training studio class each monthBeginning January 8, 2026, if you complete any F45 Training workout on iFIT, you’ll receive a promo code for a free in-person F45 class at a participating studio.* Here’s how it works:Complete at least one F45 Training workout on iFIT during the month.If you’re eligible, you’ll receive an email with a promo code to redeem an F45 Training class in studio.You can earn this reward once per month as long as you stay engaged with F45 Training content on iFIT.See what F45 Training has to offerNow, iFIT members can access the world-renowned energy and structure of F45 Training’s signature formats- all from the comfort of your own home. Here’s what you’ll find:Licensed F45 Training contentYou can now access a collection of F45 Training series based on their most popular formats, including:Athletica: high-energy cardioRomans: targeted strength trainingMarathon: cardio enduranceThe Nines: hybrid conditioningMondrian: stretching and recoveryOriginal iFIT x F45 seriesIn addition to the licensed F45 Training content, you also have access to brand-new series co-created with F45 Training. Each series is guided by iFIT Trainers Hannah Eden and John Peel alongside F45 trainers. These workouts offer the best of both worlds: F45 Training signature workouts alongside the iFIT coaching you know and love. These new series include:iFIT x F45: Cardio Series: AthleticaiFIT x F45: Resistance Series: RomansiFIT x F45: Hybrid Series: CheckmateWhether you’re looking to level up your routine or just get back into fitness, there is a series for you. The iFIT x F45 Training partnership unlocks a new world of training for you, all on iFIT.*Offer valid for iFIT athletes who complete iFITxF45 or F45 qualifying workouts within the same calendar month. Limit one code per user per month. Code valid for one (1) drop-in class at participating studios. Code has no cash value and must be redeemed in the month earned. Class availability not guaranteed. Once redeemed, class cannot be cancelled and rebooked using the same code; studio cancellation and no-show fees may apply. Offer is non-transferable and may be modified or ended at any time. For redemption issues, contact support@f45training.comDisclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. NordicTrack assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
December 8, 2025
Find Your Stride with Tommy Rivs in the Redwoods Walk to Run Series
There’s just something magical about taking your next step forward, especially when it means you’re surrounded by the towering redwoods and rugged beauty of California’s northern coast. iFIT Trainer Tommy Rivs’ newest series will help you experience the magic of this region with the Redwoods Walk to Run Series. This beginner-friendly program is designed to help you progress from walking to running at your own pace.Explore California’s Scenic Coast Set along breathtaking coastal trails and through scenic redwood groves, this series brings the natural beauty of Northern California to your treadmill. From the peaceful paths of Laguna Point to the rolling meadows of Mendocino Headlands, each workout is an opportunity to breathe, move, and connect with the pure joy of movement.Make Progress with Tommy RivsKnown for his thoughtful coaching and love of movement, Tommy Rivs will guide you through a mix of walking and running intervals to gradually build your endurance and confidence. Each workout keeps the speed steady while changing your movement so you can focus on how your body feels and adapts as you move.Whether you’re returning to fitness or taking your first steps toward running, this series is all about moving forward with purpose. Tommy will help you to:Develop endurance and build strength with progressive intervalsImprove your form and consistency with his expert guidanceReconnect with the joy of movement in an inspiring settingBuild confidence to take on your next running challengeThis is only the beginning; there’s so much more to come with Rivs. For now, lace up those shoes and join him for an incredible journey amongst the redwoods.Join Tommy Rivs in the Redwoods
November 3, 2025
Enter iFIT’s Second Chance Marathon Contest for a Chance to Run the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS
Win an entry in the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, with team iFIT!2025 marked a defining moment for Australian sport, as the TCS Sydney Marathon became the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major, joining the ranks of the world’s most prestigious races. As the Official Fitness Training Partner, iFIT captured the event in full, filming the entire course to bring Sydney’s streets to life for runners around the world. Guided by iFIT Trainer Ashley Paulson, the marathon was transformed into an immersive workout, from the Harbour Bridge to the Opera House, giving iFIT members the chance to experience the race virtually on their NordicTrack treadmills within just 24 hours of the finish line.This year, iFIT is helping more runners turn their marathon goals into realities by giving them the chance to secure an entry into the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. Five runners will earn their place on the start line and cross the finish line with Team iFIT, receiving a custom training guide and mentorship from iFIT Trainers to help them every step of the way!The winners of the iFIT Second Chance Marathon Contest for a Chance to run the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS are:Matthew ScottGareth RusselKate MaconachieMaria Bozena NowakMilena RadoychevaHow to apply and what we’re looking forTell us why YOU deserve a place in the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, and what it would mean to take on this challenge with Team iFIT by your side. We’re looking for authentic stories, passion for running, and the drive to be part of something bigger. Submit your response HERE.Details and contest rules The Contest begins on November 10, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time (“PT”) and ends on November 16, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Click here for the Official Rules. Applications to be submitted through this form.Upon the completion of the Contest Entry Period, a panel comprised of members of Sponsor’s staff will review the Entries. Sponsor will select up to five (5) winners. Winners will be notified using the email address provided with the entrant’s Entry.The fifty (50) United States (and the District of Columbia); Canada; Mexico; the United Kingdom; France; Germany; Spain; New Zealand; and Australia.Disclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. NordicTrack assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
November 9, 2025