A ‘little workout’ is a good thing . . . .

An abbreviated workout can be a temporary replacement for a full workout when time is short. Time constraints, commonplace in modern society, can and do interrupt workout consistency. Through recurring episodes of interruption, waning exercise consistency ensues, and becomes justifiable, due to intermittent time shortages. Any attained physical gains can be sustained by instituting sessions of abbreviated exercise. Lack of time can be the impetus for devising concise exercise routines that can be utilized when needed.

Completing a full workout routine (definitions can vary) is not always possible due to time restrictions. There are daily responsibilities that require attention. Time is structured thus, to allow for accomplishing the activities to which one must tend. Even workouts, if they are part of the group of regular activities, must be scheduled. Yet, available time is limited. Unexpected events crop up and time must be reapportioned to make room for the various parts of the schedule. In these instances, the workout time will possibly become compromised,

Society is geared to run full tilt in attempting to do, but not always completing, everything. People are want to schedule something for every available moment. To do this and to do that, unceasingly, is what defines modern society. Striving to consistently complete items on a ‘to-do’ list can lend to becoming sidetracked. The inability to finish a list of things should not be a cause for dismay . It is sometimes necessary to slow down a bit. Rest is crucial to the the survival and well-being of the body. This is also a good time to reset before proceeding onward. Forgoing a workout, every now and then is not a death sentence.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

A poor habit of skipping exercise sessions can develop from consistent use of time interruptions as a validating justification to do so. Situations do arise that disrupt the workout routine. It happens occasionally . . . what is one to do? Yes, skipping the work out is optional. One should consider this as a last resort, if there are no other choices that can be made. The issue with this choice is that, from it, avoidance patterns can develop: especially if the person is a novice to exercising. Better to do some shortened version of a workout, if possible. This would be more beneficial than skipping a session.

The importance of regularly exposing the body to (some degree of) physical stress cannot be overstated. The body is built to move. The structures of the body: lungs, heart, skeleton. sinews, muscles, . . . all of these come together for the express purpose of facilitating movement. Any exercise is beneficial. Resistance training is needed to keep the tone and strength of the muscles and sinews. Aerobic endeavors keep the the heart and diaphragm strong and lungs pliable. Flexibility sustains / increases range of motion. Short amounts of time spent with these modalities serve to keep the body functioning in a normal, healthy state.

Brevity of time is the opportunity to explore exercise options that maximize available periods of time. Being flexible is an important quality when the schedule needs to be amended. The importance of exercising need not be ill effected by the lack of time. People, in general, derive beneficial impact from any degree of physical activity. A time restricted workout can provide an adequate degree of physical stimulation. These small workouts can be undertaken as the opportunities allow. Whether in large amounts or in small amounts, the times spent exercising can definitely benefit the overall health of the body.

One can be inspired to efficiently and effectively exercise when only minimal time is available. It is through physical exertion that the body sustains and improves inherent functionality. Repeatedly using time constraints as an excuse for exercise avoidance is antithetical to becoming more healthy. The individual can choose to not participate in the frenzied rushing that is endemic throughout modern society. One can take advantage of the abbreviated workout to maintain the acquired gains acquired from the more extensive workouts.

A Shortened Strength Training session can be investigated, as an example. Giving priority to working both sides of the body is important. Compound movements are are most effective for placing exercise related stress upon the body. Apply full range of motion for pushing and pulling movements. Personal preferences will dictate how the workout will be effected . . . . . free weights, body weight, machines or a by combination of modalities. Upper Body Pulling. Upper Body Pushing. Lower Body Pushing. Lower Body Pulling. Training volume is more important than training frequency. However, this workout is an adjunct to a more extensive routine and is not meant to suffice for a regular regimen. Recommended volume is a minimum of 2 weekly sets per muscle group using a 6–15 RM loading range (target 15–40 reps can if training is performed to volitional failure). 

Use these guidelines as seen fit to accommodate whatever timeframe is available.

s

resticting

Leave a comment