How Long Should Your Workout Last?
How Long Should Your Workout Last?
Just the other day, one of my clients asked me what I thought about the 7-minute workout. My knee jerk reaction was to talk about the merits of an effective and efficient workout since I never give much credence into too-good-to-be-true claims. However, it was The New York Times that was giving this workout a lot of buzz. Then it was Forbes writing about the workout, and then that buzz spread to Good Morning America. The 7-minute workout is real, and it works … at least that is what mainstream media would like you to believe.
To be fair, the 7-minute workout has some very valid exercise science behind it and looks like a great way for many beginners/folks struggling to carve out time and motivation to get an efficient, full-body workout. It consists of 12 exercises such as jumping jacks, wall-sits, push-ups, dips, lunges and planks (just to name a few) that are to be completed in 30 seconds with 10 seconds to rest in between each exercise.
It’s not this workout trend that I have an issue with, however, I read plenty of pros and cons about the 7-minute workout. What I take issue with is setting unrealistic expectations that trick people into believing a “minimum effective dose” can lead to maximum results. This phenomenon has plagued the fitness industry and fitness experts alike. There is no denying that exercise - in any dose - is good for your body. In fact, I have suggested that especially during these past several stressful months that carving out a routine of less than 30 minutes can still afford you many health benefits. But, do not confuse the part from the whole … IF, it only took 7 minutes to get into great shape, the struggle to lose fat would be less of an issue and our obesity index would not be over 40%.
This brings me to another often asked question: What is the ideal amount of time to work out?
My answer: There is no such thing as an “ideal” amount of time that everyone’s workout should take. There are too many factors at play that can change things significantly from each person’s individual needs, experience level and goals to factors that we aren’t even in control of. What you should be more concerned with is the integrity of the workout you are completing. It should be designed intelligently rather that filled with unnecessary fluff that will only be detrimental to forward progress. Also, do not waste time between sets with banter and social media posts, and at the same time do not rush through your workout just to get it done.
If you look hard enough, you will find research that proves or disproves time frames for workouts that may satisfy you, but at the end of the day all you need to do is focus on making sure your specific workout is designed properly for your specific needs and goals. As long as you do that, your workout will take exactly as long as they should.
Kim Duke is a certified personal trainer and owner of Core Performance Fitness and Training located at 55 Bristol Lane, Ellicottville, NY. Kim resides in Ellicottville where she raised her two sons, Zach and Nik. For more information about her studio visit her Facebook page or www.coreperformancefitness.com. Reach Kim at kduke65@gmail.com.
