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Exercising in a Short Amount of Time

When you are short on time, it’s not the time to give up on your exercise routine. Instead, remember that a little exercise is better than none. So I thought I could give you some ideas of what you can do for mini-workouts to get in shape with limited time.

 

Many studies indicate that short and intense workouts lasting around thirty minutes are sufficient and even better for building muscle. After forty-five minutes to an hour the body begins to lose the benefits of the workout. By doing long, drawn out workouts you may actually do more harm than good because you risk over training.

 

Evidence that short sessions of exercise help the heart is good news for those who haven't been exercising. If you are just beginning, you can start off slowly by breaking your exercise into smaller time segments and still get the benefit. This may be better than trying to be too ambitious the first time out, which can often result in a sore back or sore muscles and prompt you to stop entirely.

 

Starting out in short sessions also takes the excuse away that you have no time. If you exercise for 10 minutes three times a day, or 15 minutes two times a day, you're still getting in 30 mins of exercise, which is beneficial.

 

Aerobic exercise is what hearts like best. It makes the heart become stronger and work more efficiently. You can get an aerobic workout from numerous activities, such as biking, jogging, running, swimming, brisk walking and dancing.

 

In addition to these activities, an aerobic workout can be achieved by a quick workout DVD or by using exercise machines (e.g., stationary bikes, treadmills, stair-steppers, rowing machines) that can be found at a local gym or health club. Be sure to check with your doctor before you begin any kind of exercise program.

 

Whether you choose to do one of these activities or something moderate such as taking a walk break at work, taking the stairs, or cleaning the house, just be sure you do something.

Rebecca

Rebecca

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About rmohning

Rebecca Mohning M.S., R.D., L.D. is a registered dietitian and a certified personal trainer. She received her Bachelor’s degree in dietetics and her graduate degree in exercise and sports science from Iowa State University. She also has a personal training certification from the American College of Sports Medicine. Rebecca currently has her own private nutrition and fitness consulting business is the Washington DC area.

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