One long workout VS two mini ones??

gimedatnow

Is it better to do one long workout or break it into mini ones throughout the day (morning/evening)? Calorie-wise, is there actually any difference? It seems way harder to run 10 miles than it is to run 5 miles in the morning, then 5 again at night, and intuitively, I assume that the former should burn way more. Then again, you get a "metabolism boost" by breaking it in two... Any words of wisdom on this issue would be much appreciated!

fridayjustleft04

I've read a lot of articles in favor of breaking up workouts. The theory is that if you break it up, you're less likely to get tired and sustain an injury. Also, a lot of people don't have a huge block of time they can set aside and do a long workout in, but they generally do have 2 or 3 small chunks of free time, so I think it's great for that reason, as well. I really can't imagine why it would matter one way or the other; the important thing is that you're moving!

kanonxbou47

I can't do like 10 miles... I would break it up. Usually, I just go to the gym for a long time, but it seems like breaking it up would be more practical for most people.

calimari

I do breakout ones during the week (15 minutes walking at work; 15 minutes on bike at home; 10 minute cardio video); on the weekend, when I have time, I do longer things (90 minute bike ride; hiking; 60 minute yoga class).

MyJourney11

I usually do a 30-45 minute workout mid-day and then another workout around 6 whenever I can.

CaWaterBug8

Bumping for later!

jenfitz34

believe it or not studies at the American Medical Association have shown that your body doesn't know the difference between two half hour sessions and one hour session. They burn the same amount of calories if you can muster the same intensity for the second workout as you did the first.
If you are more comfortable with two and can have a higher intensity with two... why not go with two?
If however, you have higher intensity with just one longer, I'd stick to the longer.

circusmom

I could be wrong but I seem to remember reading that it is better if you can split your workout into two. If I'm remembering correctly, you continue to burn calories ay a higher rate after your done with your workout, so if you split your workout up you'd get twice the "afterburn".

erinhale

It boostesthe metabolism twice instead of once! Two mini

gimedatnow

Thanks so much for your input, everyone!! Maybe I'll alternate between the two to mix it up a bit and see how that goes. )