How Many Times a Week Should You Work Out to Lose Weight?

To lose weight, exercise for almost an hour each day.

Longer Workouts Lead to More Weight Loss

In a 2008 study at the University of Pittsburgh, researchers found that overweight and obese women need to exercise at least 275 minutes per week, or 55 minutes 5 days a week, to lose weight. When the study began, the subjects led a sedentary lifestyle, and after six months, they had lost an average of 10 percent of their body weight.

Short Workouts Can Also Be Effective

In general, physicians recommend that everyone should exercise for 30 minutes per day at least five times a week to stay healthy. Only 30 minutes of exercise will help your heart and lungs, and you are still burning calories. You can lose weight with shorter workouts, but it will be at a slower pace.

Bottom Line

It is very difficult to lose weight without exercising. According to the University of Pittsburgh study, exercising in short sessions of at least 10 minutes throughout the day is as effective as one long workout. Consider consulting with a trainer when you are first starting a routine to find an effective workout that will help you meet your goals without getting bored.

References

• WebMD: Exercise Holds Key to Keeping Weight Off
• Fitness: Your Top Five Exercise Excuses--Busted!
• Mayon Clinic: Aerobic exercise: Top 10 reasons to get physical

Resources

• Fitness: Fast Workouts