Have 20 Minutes? The Perks of Quick Workouts With Life Time

On the days when your to-do list is never-ending and your inbox is overflowing, don’t underestimate the power of quick workouts. In a short amount of time, you can still pack a punch. 

Longer workouts don’t always equal better results. Moving your body for short bouts each day can be as beneficial as extended periods of exercising. A recent studypresented at the American Heart Association’s Health Conference suggests that short spurts of walking throughout the day may help you live longer.  

For a deep dive into the benefits of quick workouts, we spoke with Cliff Edberg, Director of Strategic Growth Initiatives for the Fitness Division of Life Time.  

Fit in a quick sweat at our network of in-person partner gyms and gyms like Life Time. However busy your schedule may be, there is a Gympass plan calling your name. Create your free account and find one that works best for you. 

How do you prioritize working out and fit it into your own daily life? 

Edberg:“Exercise has always been a passion of mine. It gave me my profession and ultimately led me to Life Time. For those reasons, exercise has always been a priority and relatively easy to fit into my daily life. That said, I do need to ensure my workouts are scheduled in the morning or the workday can easily get me off track and either cause me to run out of daylight or take me out of the mental space to work out.”

What are some physical health benefits of quick workouts?

Edberg:“Many of the same health benefits that are attributed to “normal” workouts are associated with short workouts as well. Short workouts can help strengthen muscles, increase cardiovascular health, improve flexibility/mobility, and support overall mental health.”

Do you believe there are mental benefits of short sweat sessions?  

Edberg:“There are many mental benefits to short workouts. Short workouts can increase the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin which help promote a happier mood. They can provide mental breaks to decompress throughout a busy day which too will support overall mental health. Lastly, short workouts can keep you on track with your exercise consistency which helps develop the healthy habit of exercise and can make you feel accomplished.”

What are your favorite quick and effective ways to break a sweat at Life Time (machines, classes, personal training, etc.)?

Edberg:“There is an old saying in Personal Training, “the best type of exercise is the type you will actually do.” That is the beauty of Life Time. Whether you prefer strength training with free weights or machines, like to do cardio on treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, rowers, or stepmills, or enjoy cycle, studio, or yoga classes, Life Time has it all. Ultimately, I would recommend getting consistent with what you like to do and what keeps you motivated. From there, you can explore all the other opportunities that come with the membership.”

Can you share a few tips for someone struggling to fit exercise into their daily life?

Edberg:“First, remove the most common barriers of  “I don’t have easy access to equipment” and “I don’t know what to do.” Life Time and many other retailers have in-home equipment to purchase. I would recommend buying a set of light and moderate weight dumbbells and resistance bands with handles. These 2 pieces of equipment along with your own body weight and a chair are more than enough to get a great workout in. Next, having a plan is key. All Life Time members have access to programs built by our Master Coaches that are included with membership. These programs are designed for both those coming to the club and those who need to fit a workout in at home. Having these 2 resources will ensure a short workout will fit into anyone’s busy life.”

How does Life Time help gym-goers make being active a part of their lifestyle? 

Edberg:“Beyond our wide variety of free classes and virtual programs, Life Time offers all its members a wide variety of Personal Training services that range from complimentary exercise, nutrition, and Pilates sessions to ongoing training with your own Personal Trainer. Our goal is to support every member with the exercise modality that compliments both their goals and preferences.”