The 60 minute workout myth

By Trainer Kate

That gold standard: 60 minutes to get results.

Every exercise class, DVD or training session you’ll find is exactly that, 60 minutes. That can be somewhat discouraging and daunting if you don’t have that time or maybe you’re just starting your exercise journey.

Luckily, times have changed. These days, shorter is better for a lot of people. And any amount of activity is truly better than none. So no more worries and excuses that you don’t have an hour to work out. Instead, focus on these guidelines that combat the hour myth for realistic long-term results.

1. Don’t ditch the warm-up.

Warm-ups are essential for safety and effectiveness. If you’re going to drop to 30-minute workouts, spend at least 5 minutes of your time slowly ramping up your heart rate and core temperature. Then, in the 20 to 25 minutes you have left, aim to be uncomfortable. Try HIIT intervals.

2. Do something every day!

Add frequency, but don’t forget your active recovery days.

You still want to aim for 150 minutes of total exercise each week for good health. Try a few days a week of high(er) intensity exercise mixed with days of yoga, walking or leisurely bike riding.

3. Move more, but don’t just rely on your step counters. Stand up!

Workouts are only part of the equation. Sitting is detrimental to our health. The ‘move more’ mantra has been out there for a while now, so don’t just rely on your number of steps per day to give you your virtual thumbs up- every hour be sure to stand up and move around even if you’ve reached your step goal for the day.