MAXIMIZING WORKOUTS WITH MINIMAL TIME

Author: Joshua Pluenneke

With school, work, and social events, working out seems like a luxury for college students. But you don't need to spend hours at the gym to stay active. With the right approach, you can achieve an excellent workout in 20 minutes without a gym membership or expensive equipment. Whether you're looking to burn fat, pack on muscle, or enhance endurance, follow these steps to make the most of your time.

Fat-Burning Workout

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is perfect for burning calories within minutes. This exercise alternates between bursts of tough exercise and short moments of rest to keep your metabolism and heart rate active. Try this circuit: 30 seconds of jumping jacks, 30 seconds of squats, 30 seconds of push-ups, and 30 seconds of mountain climbers. Rest for 30 seconds, then repeat the circuit four times. You’ll break a sweat and burn serious calories in just 20 minutes.

Quick Strength Training Routine

If you are more interested in muscle-building, you can increase strength using a short but effective bodyweight routine. Complete three sets of the following: 10 push-ups, 10 squats, 10 lunges per leg, and 10 chair triceps dips. If dumbbells or resistance bands are available, swap in exercises such as bicep curls or overhead presses. Keep rest periods to a minimum to get more efficient and intense.

Endurance-Boosting Cardio Session

For the individual desiring to increase stamina and cardiovascular health, a fast cardio routine will do. Start with a five-minute jog in place or jumping rope warm-up. Then alternate between one minute of maximum intensity motion (like burpees, jump squats, or jogging in place) and 30 seconds of minimum intensity motion (like marching or slow lunges) for 15 minutes. This structure keeps your heart rate elevated without exhausting you.

Squeezing in a workout doesn't have to mean taking time out from studying or socializing. With these quick and effective 20-minute routines, you can get fit without rearranging your whole schedule. At LiveLight, we believe small things count—so pick a routine, stick with it, and get fitness on your side!