Quick Exercise Bouts

Let's face it, we're all very busy and finding time to exercise is a challenge. This fact has led to hundreds of books, videos and infomercials insisting that all it takes is just a few minutes a day (5,8,10 etc.) to achieve your fitness goals. These advertisements show people that look incredibly fit and imply that all they did was an 8 minute routine a few days a week. I hate to burst your bubble if you have already gone out and purchased some of these workout videos but these claims just aren't true.

The U.S government and various exercise organizations and associations have research based recommendations that directly conflict with the idea that just a few minutes is enough for your health. Their guideline is to participate in 30 minutes a day of moderately intense activity on most days of the week. Following this guideline will help prevent diseases like obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

If you can't handle 30 minutes or more right off the bat that's fine. You can start small and gradually work your way up. Start with 10-15 minutes and progress as you feel comfortable. Getting started is always tough but if you can commit and get to the 30 minutes a day at least 4 or 5 days a week, you won't be disappointed with the results you'll experience.