Study Reports that 30-minute Workout More Effective Then Hour-long Session for Weight Loss

The battle of the bulge against obesity is ongoing. However new research from the researchers at the University of Copenhagen could help those battling obesity get healthy quicker.

The Danish study suggests that in terms of long-term weight loss, shorter daily workouts are more effective than longer, more infrequent ones. The study found that in those who exercised for just a half hour daily lost a third more weight than those who worked out for an hour a day. These scientists believe that shorter workouts left those studied with more energy and the motivation to live a healthy lifestyle. The latter, however, those who worked out for an hour, would more likely to feel burnt out.

About the Study

The study was published online in the Scandinavian Journal of Public Health. Researchers monitored nearly 60 moderately overweight Danish men for 13 weeks – half of which exercised for 30 minutes a day by cycling, cross training or jogging and the other half exercises for a full hour. During the study period, the patients answered interview questions to determine their mood, energy levels and motivation to continue.

The test group subjects that exercised the least talked more about their energy levels and having the motivation to exercise again the next day and living healthy every day. According to the study author Dr. Astrid Jesperson of the University of Copenhagen: “They take the stairs, take the dog for an extra walk or cycle to work.” In contrast, the study said those that exercised an hour felt exhausted, less motivated and were less open about making healthy changes throughout their day and life. Ultimately, the study found that the men who worked out a half hour lost an average of 3.6 kg (about 8 pounds) during the three months studied while the men who exercised longer lost just 2.7 kg (about 6 pounds).

Following the trial, the patients were given several qualitative interviews which helped the researchers to better understand how their exercise routine affected each patient’s life. Overall, research alluded to the fact that lightweight workouts were more effective than strenuous and more intense ones.

Ultimately, the team believes that their study helped them to better understand the multi-faceted effects of obesity that include much more than just exercise. They also have learned and report that obesity should be tackled at multiple holistic approaches for the best result.

Supporting Studies

Another recent study published in the Public Library of Science (PLOS) journal in May 2013 found that overweight, inactive men can get fit and healthy with just four vigorous minutes of high-intensity training just three times weekly.

Another study in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that each additional minute of intense exercise endured resulted in a small reduction of increased weight loss in females.

An April American Heart Association study also showed that a brisk walk was just as effective as running and any movement is better than none.

All of these studies are helping morbid obese or extremely overweight individuals to better understand and execute a weight loss plan that works and helps them lose the most weight in the most effective ways.