FAST FITNESS IN 15 MINUTES A DAY

In working with over 20,000 clients in the past 15 years one of the most often asked questions of myself and trainers is "If I only have a limited amount of time to exercise, is it worth it?"

The answer both statistically and experientially is a resounding Yes! Current research shows, for instance, that 3-10 minute sessions of exercise throughout a day count as much as one 30-minute session done in one setting. Of course your goals will determine the type of exercise and proper intensity. Here is an example of a routine that you can accomplish in 20 minutes or less and combines the three cornerstones of fitness- strength, flexibility and cardiovascular exercise.

Warm up using major muscle group activities that stretch the muscles and joints and prepare the body for exercise. Major muscle groups include back, chest, legs, shoulders, and core, or stomach. Make sure to hold each stretch for between 10-30 seconds. Don’t bounce, and make sure to breathe throughout each stretch.

Immediately follow this with a series or "circuit" of strength training exercises again emphasizing the major muscle groups. Use rubberized portable exercise equipment, as this will insure a quick workout anywhere you might find yourself. Here are our favorite exercises:

• Standing military press
• Chest press
• Standing back row
• Modified squat
• Standing bicep curl
• Standing tricep press

When accomplishing the strength exercises move from exercise to exercise with less than 30 seconds of rest in between. This will increase your metabolism and heart rate and help keep your heart rate up in order to burn calories efficiently.For photos of these exercises go to the Harbinger web page, or see the portable exercise cards included with all Harbinger products

Finish the workout by either walking briskly for 5-10 minutes, climbing stairs, or stepping up and down on a 12" bench if you are limited in space or are unable to go outside.

Almost all of us, regardless of our professional and personal demands, can find 15 minutes at least once each day. This 15 minute workout is also very helpful for those who travel, juggle work and family, or otherwise find themselves very time limited.

And here’s a promise. You will never finish a day and think or say "I wish I hadn’t exercised." In fact some days it may be the only thing that you truly do for yourself!