For healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends weekly, 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, like brisk walking and swimming, or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise, which includes running and aerobic dancing, reports Mayo Clinic. We know we're supposed to exercise. But for many of us, the prospect of those 150 minutes seems as insurmountable as climbing Mount Everest.
A new study reported by Medical News has a kernel of shining hope for those who think a "Couch to 5K" would never be in his or her future. University of British Columbia researchers found that listening to music while exercising generates positive attitudes towards high-intensity interval training (HIIT), characterized by short periods of intense aerobic exercise interrupted by less-intense recovery periods. This is a big deal, because HIIT is more effective than endurance exercise for improving cardiovascular fitness, says a 2015 study published in medical journal Sports Medicine. Better yet, an optimal HIIT workout is only 20-30 minutes, according to Built Lean. In short, you are getting more results in less time.
Advertisement
The UBC study is important because when you have a more positive attitude when exercising, you will feel more motivated to exercise again the next day. Before you know it, exercise will be a daily habit you wouldn't dream of missing.
"For busy people who may be reluctant to try HIIT for the first time, this research tells us that they can actually enjoy it, and they may be more likely to participate in HIIT again if they try it with music," says UBC researcher Matthew Stork.
Advertisement
Are you as motivated as we are? Download this playlist by Shape, and get exercising today! Encourage your friends to join your exercise program when you SHARE this article on social media!