How Much Exercise do we really need?
How Much Exercise Do We Really Need?
When it comes to exercise, opinions abound. Some swear by intense daily workouts, while others advocate for gentle, restorative movement. The truth? The "right amount" of exercise is deeply personal and depends on factors like your lifestyle, fitness goals, and current physical condition.
Finding Your Perfect Balance
I’ve experimented with a variety of exercise routines over the years—weights, running, circuit training, yoga, block therapy, rebounding, vibrational training (Power Plate), and even blood flow devices. What I’ve discovered is that every form of exercise offers unique benefits, and the key is to listen to your body and find what works best for you.
For instance:
Weights helped me build strength and confidence.
Running challenged my endurance and cleared my mind.
Yoga brought flexibility, mindfulness, and calm.
Rebounding (hello, mini trampoline!) felt like play while improving my lymphatic system.
Power Plate introduced me to the world of vibrational therapy, helping with circulation and recovery.
Block Therapy and other gentle modalities brought deep release and awareness to areas of tension I didn’t even know existed.
So, How Much Is Enough?
For most people, the general guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, combined with strength training twice a week, are a great place to start. But here’s the catch: It’s not one-size-fits-all.
What matters most is finding a level of movement that:
Fits your schedule. If a 30-minute session is unrealistic, break it into smaller chunks.
Respects your current ability. Start where you are, not where you think you should be.
Feels joyful. If you dread it, it won’t last. Find something you look forward to, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or swimming.
Timing, Fuel, and Personal Ability
When you exercise can also play a role:
Morning workouts might help set the tone for your day, boosting energy and focus.
Afternoon or evening sessions could better align with your natural rhythms, especially if mornings aren’t your thing.
Fueling your body with high-quality nutrients is equally essential. For me, food-grade herbs and whole, vibrant foods have been a game-changer, fueling my energy and enhancing recovery. Pairing proper nutrition with movement amplifies the benefits of both.
The Key Is to Start
No matter where you are in your fitness journey, the most important thing is to start. It doesn’t have to be perfect or fit anyone else’s definition of “exercise.” Maybe it’s a meditative walk through a lush, forested trail, a quick yoga session on your living room floor, or joining a friend for a fitness class at the local rec center.
The magic lies in movement. When we move our bodies, incredible things happen:
Stress melts away.
Energy surges.
Sleep improves.
Strength, both physical and mental, grows.
You don’t need to overcomplicate it. Just move. Find joy in the process. And watch as the amazing benefits unfold in your life.