Struggling to fit exercise into your schedule? A new study suggests you might not need to hit the gym every day to reap the benefits. Being a ‘weekend warrior’ – someone who engages in physical activity mainly on weekends – could be just as effective for your brain health as regular daily exercise.
Researchers found that weekend warriors who meet the recommended guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week can enjoy similar benefits to those who spread their workouts throughout the week. This includes improved cardiovascular health, better cognitive function, and reduced risks of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
The study indicates that as long as individuals accumulate the recommended exercise time, it doesn’t matter whether they do it in one long session or several shorter sessions throughout the week. This finding is especially encouraging for those with hectic lifestyles, as it shows that even sporadic bursts of physical activity can be beneficial.
Additionally, the brain health benefits associated with exercise, such as enhanced mood and cognitive function, can help combat feelings of stress and anxiety, promoting overall wellbeing. So, if your weekdays are packed, know that your weekend workouts count – probably more than you think.
This approach not only fosters a healthier lifestyle but also encourages more people to engage in exercise, breaking down barriers to physical activity for those who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by the prospect of daily workouts.
For more insights on this super interesting study, check out the full article here.
