What is exercise snacking?
Exercise snacking involves breaking physical activity into small, 1–2 minute, high-intensity, or strength-focused bursts throughout the day, rather than one long session. These brief “snacks” of movement can last anywhere from 30 seconds to five minutes and are designed to be easy to incorporate into everyday routines.
What do I need for exercise snacking?
Nothing, except a short burst of time. You can choose any simple movement that require little or no equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Examples include climbing a few flights of stairs, doing a quick set of squats, walking briskly around the block, performing push-ups against a wall, or even doing a short burst of jumping jacks. Just as healthy snacks can help maintain energy levels between meals, short bursts of exercise can help maintain physical activity levels throughout the day.
I’m already time poor and exhausted, how can I make exercise snacking work for me?
One of the main reasons exercise snacking works is that it addresses one of the biggest barriers to exercise: lack of time. Many people struggle to find 30 to 60 minutes in their schedule for a traditional workout. However, most people can spare a minute or two several times during the day. Need ideas? Do squats while you wait for the kettle to boil. Take a lap around the block when you make a call.Stretch in front of the television. Always take the stairs instead of a lift. Exercise snacking can also boost your energy levels and mental health with research showing that breaking up sedentary time with short bursts of activity can improve circulation, mood, posture, and energy levels.
Does exercise snacking really work or is it just another fad?
Research in exercise science suggests that the body responds positively to frequent bouts of activity, even when they are brief. Short, intense movements can stimulate the cardiovascular system, activate muscles, control blood sugar and increase metabolism.
