Got 10 Minutes? That’s Enough To Make A Workout Count
By: Marcela Camargo and Kimberly McIntyre
Many people blame their busy lives for their lack of physical activity. However, just like we make time for eating or taking care of our hygiene, exercising is also a necessity to reach and maintain optimal health.
There’s no denying that nowadays, many people are so busy and have limited time to exercise. But “lack of time” should not be a valid excuse for skipping a workout. Why? Because the best part about exercising is that it can adapt to the amount of time that someone has available.
Research shows that 10 minutes of cardio can do wonders for your health. In fact, it can be life-changing.
According to an article written by researchers for the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, approximately 110,000 deaths per year could be prevented if US adults aged 40 to 85 years or older increased their moderate-to-vigorous physical activity to 10 minutes per day.
BENEFITS OF 10-MINUTE WORKOUT
Data from the American Time Use Survey revealed that Americans averaged more than 5 hours of free time per day. Therefore, it is fair to say that most people have 10 minutes in their day to squeeze in a much-needed workout.
Yes, 10 minutes per day can make all the difference. Here are some of the things that a 10-minute workout can do for your health.
Boost metabolism (aids in weight loss)
Increase energy levels
Improve quality of sleep
Improve cognitive function
Better heart health
HIGH INTENSITY WORKOUTS
The key to make those 10 minutes count and to optimize the health benefits is to engage in a high intensity cardio session.
“Science has shown that doing mini-workouts throughout the day are just as effective as one long workout,” Lauren Stobbie, a certified strength and conditioning specialist told Women’s Health.
There are many activities that you can do to get you sweating and increase your heart rate in just 10 minutes. Some of them include: high intensity interval training workouts (better known as HIIT), running, walking at a fast pace, and even weight lifting. The best thing about doing a 10-minute intense workout is that of course, you are done in just 10 minutes! Your intense workout will be done before you know it.
Now more than ever, lack of time is not a valid excuse to skip something so important as working out. As humans live more sedentary lives, it is imperative that we get the physical activity necessary to live long and healthy lives.