Short workouts are trending, and it’s not hard to see why.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests that adults aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, plus two days of strength training. Some people love long workouts, but many now prefer shorter ones, especially as Strava’s report shows over 20% of workout sessions logged by users are under 20 minutes. In a world adjusted by the pandemic, at-home exercising has risen, prompting people to fit in quick sessions between commitments, thanks to platforms offering bite-sized classes.
Research backs the benefits of frequent movement throughout the day, hinting that replacing sedentary stretches with activity can mitigate risks like heart disease and diabetes. Short workouts prove excellent for such interruption, allowing ‘exercise snacks’—quick moments of activity—to blend into daily routines. Whether it’s climbing extra flights of stairs or quick home exercises while watching TV, these snippets keep the body moving.
Regular physical activity is linked to numerous health benefits, including enhanced cardiovascular health, stronger bones, improved mental well-being, and better sleep. What’s more, the key to sticking with exercise is finding what fits with one’s lifestyle. According to experts like Kim Perry, a set routine that integrates easily into one’s day is more likely to keep you consistent. Lesley Logan adds that the flexibility of shorter sessions reduces the pressure of squeezing workout time into busy lives, making fitness more approachable.
Vigorous workouts, even if brief, are praised for their effectiveness, particularly for those who sit often. The advantage of a short workout is that it encourages giving maximum effort, maximizing benefits in less time. High-Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, exemplifies this approach, offering robust outcomes in short bursts of intense exercise, as noted by Reena Vokoun. While a brief treadmill walk is beneficial, engaging in high-energy activities like mountain climbers or burpees boosts fitness more rapidly.
Yet, short workouts are not without cautions. A well-rounded fitness plan requires thought and diversification. Planning to ensure all muscle groups receive attention—perhaps focusing on different areas each day—avoids imbalance. Moreover, there’s a risk of injury if one rushes through exercises without proper warm-up or cool-down periods. For HIIT, experts recommend limiting sessions to two or three per week with adequate rest between to prevent overuse injuries. Lastly, these short bursts must collectively satisfy the weekly exercise goals of moderate or vigorous activity.
Short workouts, when done right, can offer significant health benefits. They’re more than just a trend; they represent a flexible and efficient way to stay fit in a busy world. While they require careful planning and execution to avoid pitfalls, they open doors for maintaining an active lifestyle amidst tight schedules.
Source: Yahoo
