Local Sports Medicine Expert Says 10 Minutes a Day Can Lead to Success

Local-Sports-Medicine-Expert-Says-10-Minutes-a-Day-Can-Lead-to-SuccessAs most people prepare to start 2017 with a renewed sense of hope for a healthier life (what’s your resolution?), one simple thing could mean the difference between success and failure: being realistic.

“Many people have the misconception that it is necessary to exercise for an hour or more to get results. While this type of training could certainly be beneficial, it is just not for everyone,” said Michael Pfeifer, PT, DPT, ATC, CMP, administrator of the La Porte Physician Network Sports Medicine program. “Everyone - from the person with a sedentary lifestyle to marathon runners - can benefit from working out for 10 minutes a day.”

Pfeifer said the health benefits of exercising have a broad reach.

“Studies have indicated that there can be an increase in as many as 50 different metabolites in the blood with only 10 minutes of exercise. These metabolites have even been shown to exist at 60 minutes after exercise. Some of these metabolites help with boosting the immune system, lowering blood sugar and insulin levels, helping with weight loss, decreasing risk of heart disease, reducing possibility of dementia, and improving mental health,” Pfeifer said.

Other overall wellness benefits include decreased stress, improved sleep, and an overall positive attitude.

“By choosing to work out for simply 10 minutes a day, the goal of being active daily is much more attainable than 30-60 minutes in your already-busy schedule,” Pfeiffer said. “If you are a beginner, it can also be discouraging if you are unable to meet the goal of those extended times due to fatigue. It is always a good idea to get checked out by a physician before exercising first to get cleared of any underlying issue.”

For more information about the La Porte Physician Network Sports Medicine Program, or to find a doctor near you, visit laportehealth.com and click on Find a Doctor.