Intense Workout May Offer More Health Benefits

Has physical activity become part of your daily life? Terrific! Ready to pick up your pace?

A longer, more intense workout may offer more health benefits—if you’re active already (and if your doctor says it’s okay). Start gradually: perhaps walk faster or longer, or lift heavier weights.

If you’re ready, try this to crank your physical activity up a notch:

• Alternate your pace. If you’re walking already, alternate.Walk for a minute, then run or walk even faster for a minute, and so on. Same thing works for swimming and cycling.
• Go the distance. And make it farther, perhaps extending your walk a mile or two through an interesting neighborhood or pleasant park. Or spend 10 more minutes on the exercise bike or cross trainer.
• Set a new goal that’s realistic for you. Join a fun run, fun walk, or bike-touring event.