It isn’t always easy or possible to squeeze in a workout due to the demands of life. An American Medical Association study found that exercising is more complex and prolonged. Still, fewer days per week, known as “weekend warriors,” can be just as effective for your health as a regular fitness session.
Doctors examined the health records of 35,0978 Americans who exercised moderately or vigorously for at least 75 minutes a week. The data showed no significant difference in mortality rates between those who exercised all weekend and those who exercised throughout the week.
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Can we achieve health and fitness by cramming a week’s workouts into a day or two? Here’s what fitness and medical professionals think.
Does Being A “Weekend Warrior” Make Sense?
Leonard Pianko, MD, a board-certified cardiologist and internal medicine physician, believes the results are counterintuitive to current thought. He said, “It would seem logical to assume that working out throughout the week would enhance longevity over just working out during the weekend.”
There are many health benefits to being an exerciser over the weekend, but Dr. Pianko says not always to follow a weekend warrior approach to fitness. It doesn’t make sense to only exercise on Saturdays and Sundays when you exercise during the week.
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Your Workout Routine Is The Best
You can stick to and enjoy the most sustainable fitness routines regardless of your goals. Jones said, “One of my more advanced will usually train three to four times a week with lifting, take one day for cardio, and two days for rest.”
The trick to incorporating more exercise into your week if you are a weekend warrior due to time constraints is to find small pockets of time throughout the week. Take a 30-minute walk or do an online yoga class during lunch instead of scrolling TikTok.