Sometimes life as a college student gets busy.  Believe me I know.  Trying to keep up with classes, eat somewhat healthy at least once a week, make enough money to survive, and of course maintain a happenin’ social life takes a lot of time.  Too often people feel they just don’t have enough time for exercise.  For years we have been taught that in order for our exercise to actually make a difference we need to maintain a moderate-level of intensity for several hours a week.  Doing that take time, dedication, and usually somebody else doing it with you.  When that doesn’t happen our exercise, well, just doesn’t happen either.

      Scientists at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario have recently proved that a lot of time may not be needed to get the results that people desire.  Their studies have shown that short high-intensity bursts can produce the same effects that long running or cycling can, such as increased oxygen capacity, muscle growth, and energy levels.  10 1-minute intervals of all-out biking with a 1-minute rest between bursts provide a great workout that can be done in only 20 minutes.  This high intensity workout accomplishes the same thing an hour run would do, only in a third of the time.

      Some may be concerned that these high intensity workouts may not be practical for all people, such as the old or ill.  Their studies showed however that a workout may be done beyond their comfort level, but still beneath their maximum heart rate, and still produce the desired results.  A workout such as this would only require the participant to go about half the speed of an all-out sprint.

      No longer do we have the excuse that we don’t have enough time to get into shape.  All we need is less than 30 minutes a day 3 times a week (you all know you spend way more time than that on Facebook anyway, so don’t tell me you don’t have that much time either) and with a few high intensity workouts we’ll be feeling better in no time. 

Article by Tyson Higgins 

References: Short Term High-Intensity Interval Training (HIT) As Effective As Moderate Long Term Endurance Exercise, Study

www.medicalnewstoday.com