Finding time for fitness can be a struggle in today’s fast-paced world. You might have to work long hours, manage household chores, or care for children. Many people find it challenging to commit to an exercise routine that requires them to spend hours at the gym.
This is where 1-minute workouts come in. 1-minute workouts, or micro-workouts, are a series of short exercises you can do wherever you are, whenever you have a spare minute. Below are the benefits of 1-minute workouts and how they can help you improve your fitness goals.
Explode/ Shutterstock | Regular cardio-based physical activity enables the heart to achieve improved blood flow
They Improve Cardiovascular Health
A cardiovascular workout is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Studies have shown that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for just one minute can improve cardiovascular endurance. This is because HIIT workouts involve short bursts of maximum effort, pushing your heart rate to its limit. These quick, intense workouts spike your metabolism, lasting several hours after the workout. And the best part?
They Increase Metabolic Rate
A lot of people are still struggling to lose weight and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI). Many think long runs or workouts are the best way to increase metabolism and burn calories. However, research has shown that even a 1-minute workout can do the same thing in a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, participants who made 8-second sprints followed by 12 seconds of rest three times a week for six weeks lost more weight and improved their metabolic rate compared to the control group.
Karen Gordon/ Getty Images | Change your body by changing your thoughts
They Boost Mood
Exercise is not just good for your body but also for your mental health. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that exercising for just one minute can significantly improve your mood, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Endorphins, the feel-good hormones, are released when you exercise. And a minute is all it takes for these hormones to transform your mood.
They Increase Productivity
The next time you feel unproductive at work, take a minute break and do a quick workout. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, short bouts of exercise increase performance, making you more alert at work. Not only will it make you more focused, but it will also relieve stress and fatigue, making you a happier and more productive employee.
Lucas Ottone/ Stocksy United | No progress is too little.
They Improve Flexibility
It’s no secret that a sedentary lifestyle can lead to stiff muscles and decreased flexibility. However, even a one-minute workout can help loosen up those muscles. Doing a few stretching exercises for 60 seconds can make a huge difference in your flexibility. It helps to alleviate pain and stiffness and improves the range of motion.
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