5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Short Workouts
Workouts don’t have to be long to be effective. In fact, short workouts can be even more impactful than long workouts at a steady state of effort. Especially if you have been doing the same workout for years.
This is great news if you don’t have much time to work out. A short, intense workout is much better than no workout.
If you are trying to start the routine of working out and don’t have much time, just start by creating consistency with short workouts as many days a week as seems doable for you. Then you can build from there.
You create habits by working on doable actions consistently over time.
Benefits of Short Workouts
Short, more intense workouts are very beneficial to your fitness health. Even 10 minute workouts can improve your mental, physical, and emotional health..
Here is a short list of the benefits:
- challenges the body
- improves cardiovascular system
- improves performance in other areas
- increases oxygen intake
- increases calorie burn
- keeps working out fresh
- decreases boredom
- increases the probability of sticking with exercising
5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Short Workouts
See the infographic associated with this article here.
There are several ways to get the most out of your short workouts. Overall, it is about increasing the intensity of your work compared to the intensity you have with longer workouts.
1. Go faster.
Pick up your pace whether it is cardio or strength training. After all, you are going shorter, so you can tolerate going faster. Of course, always maintain good form.
2. Go heavier with fewer reps.
If you are used to doing 10-15 reps for strength exercises, increase your weight and only do 6-10-reps. That is a real muscle builder.
3. Set intervals.
Use an interval timer and set your workouts with a ratio of work time to rest time. For example, 30 seconds work to 10 seconds rest and repeat 15 times. For full interval workouts, check the videos I have recorded for you to include 10 minutes ones.
4. Do total body movements.
Combine lower and upper body exercises not only for time, but to increase the heart rate. For example, a squat with a shoulder press or a deadlift with a bent over row.
5. Decrease rest time.
Set a timer for whatever time you have to work out and see how many rounds you can do in that time period with less rest.
If you are uncertain which to try, start with the one that sounds the most interesting or seems the easiest for you to do. Program a couple in your week. Stay committed to yourself to get them done. Give them time to create the change you want.
If you would like assistance with creating short workouts or developing the habit of working out, I am here to help. Schedule a time with me to chat.
I wish you nothing but the best in your health and wellness,
Jen
