Big Benefits of Short Workouts

Struggling to find time to exercise? New research reveals that just five minutes of vigorous activity can have a significant impact on your health.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of Americans aren’t meeting recommended physical activity levels, with one in four leading highly inactive lifestyles.

This lack of movement poses serious risks. “Extended periods of inactivity can increase your risk of heart disease, cancer, obesity, and even early death,” says Priyanka Runwal, a journalist covering exercise science.

However, even brief bursts of intense movement can make a big difference. Runwal highlighted a U.K. study that tracked 25,000 self-described “non-exercisers” over seven years using fitness trackers.

The study discovered that incorporating just one-to-two-minute bursts of vigorous activity, done three to four times daily, led to dramatic health benefits.

“These short bursts resulted in a 40% reduction in the risk of dying from any cause, a 40% lower risk of dying from cancer, and a 50% lower risk of dying from heart disease,” Runwal explained.

The good news? These mini sessions can fit into everyday life. Activities like carrying heavy grocery bags or choosing stairs over elevators can double as effective short exercises.

While these spurts are beneficial, experts recommend combining them with more traditional exercise routines.

The CDC advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, like running, each week.

“The biggest takeaway is to move more and sit less,” Runwal said.

Small steps can lead to big gains, helping you improve your health no matter how busy your schedule gets.

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Source: abc7news

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.