Thor blimey! The regime that’s not for weaklings

THE Viking Method is not for the faint-hearted. The training plan sees energetic cardiovascular activity alternated with static, weight-bearing moves.

Each exercise is carried out in 30 to 45-second bursts with only a minimal break between them to ensure the heart rate remains high.

‘Fast-twitch’ exercises – such as squats, pull-ups and kettlebell swings (swinging a heavy weight from between the legs up to head height) – focus on muscular strength and are used to produce more lactic acid and help boost metabolism.

Agility exercises, in the form of balletic moves such as jumps, and flexibility exercises are also incorporated to improve core strength and posture, giving the appearance of a stronger, leaner frame.

The stomach is a crucial element of the workouts. Rather than making clients do endless sit-ups and crunches, the abs are exercised during various compound moves such as lunges and squats.

A six-week online plan, called The Fury Program, costs £40 and is described as a ‘hardcore’ diet and exercise schedule. Those who sign up must exercise six days a week.

Diet is also key to the Viking Method. According to creator Svava Sigbertsdottir, the human body has six fat-burning hormones and three fat-storing hormones. The regime is said to block the fat-storing-- hormones and activate the fat-burning ones to balance insulin levels. These ‘good’ hormones are also said to have both anti-ageing and de-stressing properties.

To activate the hormones, followers of the diet are not allowed to consume carbohydrates in the 90 minutes before exercise to stop the body burning sugar instead of fat. Similarly, carbs before bed are banned and no food should be eaten within two hours of sleep.

Rice, pasta and potatoes are allowed in moderation, but must be eaten immediately after training to fuel the muscles.

Alcohol is out, replaced by vegetable smoothies and lemon in water first thing in the morning.

Cow’s milk is banned in favour of almond, coconut or rice milk; coffee is allowed but herbal teas are preferable. Sugary drinks are prohibited.

Devotees are encouraged to drink up to four litres of water a day in addition to good proteins, healthy fats and fibre in the shape of fresh vegetables and fruit.

A typical meal plan would include oats with blueberries, cinnamon and an egg with a protein shake for breakfast, lunch of griddled garlic and parsley seabass followed by a green smoothie, and dinner of chicken and ginger stir-fry.

Calories are not counted and Miss Sigbertsdottir does not encourage her clients to weigh themselves.