exercise frequency

aisha786

Many times it's hard to fit in more than 20 minutes at a time because I have a 2 year old and a 5 month old. There will be days when I can get a longer stretch. (I only do ellliptical machine)

So, I was wondering if it is better to exercise two times a day 20 minutes each OR once a day for 20 minutes?

aisha786

Many times it's hard to fit in more than 20 minutes at a time because I have a 2 year old and a 5 month old. There will be days when I can get a longer stretch. (I only do ellliptical machine)

So, I was wondering if it is better to exercise two times a day 20 minutes each OR once a day for 20 minutes?

LokiFae

I think it would help you exercise for longer if you split it up into smaller times. It would also make it easier. I know it's hard to exercise with little ones around. I personally don't think you have to do it all in one space of time, and can space it out to 10 minute intervals throughout the day when you have time. Good luck!

lessertess

All exercise is good. It doesn't really matter what's better in general. The focus should be on what's better for you.....If you can only do a short stretch for a couple times a day, then that's what works for you. Trying to force something that doesn't fit easily into your life will result in frustration and you'll probably end up quitting. Find whatever time you can.

Good Luck!

LML79

I agree! When my kids were little I had to spread it out...whenever it was naptime I could get in a little workout and then when my husband came home I would do another workout . Now I work out at night time..when hubby is home so I can do longer time on the treadmill without interruptions. Between homeschooling the kids and dealing with a high maintenaince 10 month old.... not a lot gets done during the day!

msarro

Yep, two 20 minute sessions is totally better than one. However to reap the full benefits of cardio you really want to get in a longer session here or there. But, then again, the world ain't perfect

Basically any exercise you can get will help you, whether it be two cardio sessions a day instead of one, or carrying your grocery bags to the car instead of using a cart. It all adds up

MisdemeanorM

I am not sure if you meant to say two 10 minute stretches or one 20 minute stretch... but, if you meant 2 10s vs 1 20... 1 20 min workout is better than 2 10s, but 2 10s are better than 0!

Your heartrate has to stay within your target zone for a certain amount of time (people say 20) for the best burning. Short spurts gets your heart rate up but don't keep it there long enough to make a huge difference.

On the plus side... if you can do several 10 minute spurts (I imagine that you may have to do more than 2 10 minute stints to equal one 20 minute stint, so perhaps you shoot for 3 10s a day?) it can raise your heart rate and if you stay active after that ... cleaning... chasing kids around... grocery shopping, etc... the calories you burn in your daily life should go up, as your heart rate will stay a little higher if you keep moderately active after a workout. Not significantly higher - like a full cardio workout, but nothing is more than something!

And I pass on what I tell everyone with kids! If there is a Y in your area check it out! It is income based so, for example, I pay only $30 a month and it includes daycare! Even on days I have NO time I still make a point to go because I LOVE the hour away from the critter(s)!!!