This week, I want to answer one of those questions that I get asked all the time… “How long should I be exercising for?”

Unfortunately, there is no one correct answer to this (because it depends on your goal) but here is my expert on opinion on the optimum training durations for different goals.

Weight loss & general fitness – short sessions (15-30 minutes) of high intensity interval training (HIIT) are great for burning calories, working lots of different muscles and increasing your cardiovascular fitness – you’re sure to get your heart rate up!

Toning – short sessions (15-30 minutes) of moderate intensity resistance training (using dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells etc) are good for strengthening and toning  lots of different muscles

Endurance training i.e. Marathons, cycling & triathlons etc. – longer sessions (60+ minutes) of moderate intensity training will be necessary to increase your cardiovascular and strength endurance ready for the event. This is why I don’t encourage clients to sign up for endurance events unless they have the time to train 3x 60 minutes per week.

The good thing is that for general fitness, toning & weight loss you only need to find 3x 15-30 minutes per week to feel the benefits and see results! Meaning there are no excuses to getting fit this summer. Plus, you can now exercise at home with my new Bounce for Fitness DVD – available to buy online here – which includes 6x 15 minute total body workouts!

 

Note: This advice is suitable for beginner level upwards, but please consult your GP or physiotherapist if you are unsure about any potential contraindications.

onesixeight: fitness provides Personal Training in Loughborough and online for men & women who want to get fit, tone up & feel more confident. Use the contact page to get in touch 🙂