You know you’ve said it, “I just don’t have time to work out. I’m too busy with work and family.” Well, health experts say that even if you can’t block out an extended period of time a day for a workout, a walk, or a run, you can achieve some goals to make you healthier – and happier by doing some simple, five-minute workouts.
Of course, you’ll always want to check with your doctor, but many fitness and wellness gurus want you to get at least 150 minutes a week of physical activity. Whew, sounds like a lot, particularly if you don’t already have a regular routine, but fear not, there is a way for you to get fit by fitting fitness into your daily schedule.
Short bursts of activity can impact your BMI, according to a University of Utah study. “What we learned is that for preventing weight gain, the intensity of the activity matters more than duration,” says Jessie X. Fan, professor of family and consumer studies at the university.
Fan points out that his study found that less that 5 percent of adults in American barely come close to the suggested weekly minimal physical activity requirement. So, you’re not alone, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try.
Prevention Magazine suggests that short-burst workouts can help you improve your athleticism, better regulate your blood sugar, improve your ability to burn calories faster over a period of time and, yes, even improve your brain function.
What other research shows is that people like to work out when they enjoy it, when it’s naturally integrated into the daily routine and when they’re held accountable. One of the ongoing comments many wannabe fitness-minded people say is that they really don’t know what to do to stay fit or lose those unwanted pounds.
People like to work out when they enjoy it, when it’s naturally integrated into the daily routine and when they’re health accountable”.
Women’s Health Magazine suggests that you don’t really need a fitness coach to begin to do simple 5- to 10-minute workouts at your desk or at home while you’re watching your favorite TV show, movie or sporting event. If you’re just trying to stay healthy, the magazine suggests at least three “mini-workouts” during the day to get that heart rate going and burn off some calories.
Still don’t know where to start? Here’s a link to an infographic that will offer you some tips on what you can start doing – today – at home or at the office. So, no more excuses. Time to get fit one step at a time.
