Not having a consecutive
half hour is no longer a reason not to get up and get
moving! If you only have 10 minutes, use it to your
advantage. It will all add up to a healthier you!
Stanford University took
a group of people and divided them into two groups.
Half exercised for 30 consecutive minutes, the other
half exercised in 10-minute intervals - once in the
morning, afternoon, and evening. At the end of the study,
both groups increased their fitness levels at the same
amount and at the same pace!
While “The Magic
Fitness Formula” is a very good goal to strive
for, if you limit yourself to only using this formula,
you could be setting yourself up for failure. It is
too easy to convince yourself that you don't have a
half-an-hour right now, so you can exercise later. Many
times, "Later" never comes.
("Magic Fitness Formula." For years, the experts
have told us that in order for your exercise program
to be successful, you have to work out at 60% - 80%
of your maximum heart rate, for 20 - 30 minutes each
session, at least 3 - 4 times each week.)
Time is one of our most
precious commodities. Here are a few ideas on how you
can find the time for YOU!
* Instead of a coffee break,
take a walking break.
* Take a walk while your clothes are in the dryer.
* Set your alarm for 20-30 minutes earlier in the morning.
* Go for a walk while waiting for a table at a restaurant.
* Walk in the airport while traveling.
* Going shopping?... take a lap or two around the mall
before going into stores.
* When waiting for your tee time, warm up by walking.
* Golf at a course that allows you to walk.
* Park at the outside of every lot you park in.
* Walk to the corner store.
* When waiting for your kids' lessons or at practice
- walk!
REMEMBER ... TEN MINUTES
COUNTS!
(1) [Adapted from R.F.
Debusk, et al., "Training Effects of Long Versus
Short Bouts of Exercise in Healthy Subjects." American
Journal of Cardiology, 1990, 65:1010-1013.]
©1999-2007 Copyright
by JoAnn Taylor. All Rights Reserved
