10,000 steps vs. the gym: Which workout wins?

Is it better to do that half hour of effort or move continuously at a steadier pace? It’s something people are always debating and everyone seems to have an opinion on it.

But it’s not an ‘either/or’ decision. Those who are constantly deliberating about what’s the perfect form of exercise are missing the point, because there isn’t a sacred answer. The challenge is to just do it. To start moving in whatever way suits you.

All workouts are good for your health. The key is just to be realistic about which workouts are a good fit for your lifestyle, too. Here are a few things to think about.

The general rule is, you’ll exercise more if you enjoy the type of exercise you’re doing. So if the thought of a HIIT session makes you roll your eyes, then you’re probably better off trying to walk to work or going for a walk round the park. And vice versa. If you love the rush a circuit or spin class gives you, then don’t feel bad about driving into work.

We’re all busy. And for people whose work, social and family life are really hectic, a regular, high intensity workout will be easier to fit in over a hike. There’s plenty of research that shows an hour’s endurance training could be done just as effectively in less than half the time, so don’t feel guilty about not dedicating enough ‘hours’ to exercising – it’s the impact that counts.

Likewise, if you’re active throughout the day, your workplace is effectively your gym.

I’ve recently started wearing a Fitbit, and it’s a great way to keep track of your movement throughout the day, especially when it comes to your step count. It sends reminders when you’ve been still for too long, which is really easy motivation to get up and start moving.

We generally think as we get older we should be lowering the intensity of our workouts, but I don’t personally agree. If there are legitimate physical challenges, then obviously things like running aren’t going to be an option, which is where your steps can help keep you moving.

But most people don’t realise high-intensity sprints can actually be gentle on the joints. That’s because when you run fast, the momentum is such that it takes some of the impact out compared to a longer, slow run. So, it’s worth trying new things to see what works best for your body.

For me, how I work out depends on my circumstances that day. My preference is a high-intensity workout – either running, circuits or tennis. But I recently put my back out and those kinds of exercises became a real challenge. So I started walking to and from meetings when I’d usually catch an Uber and it just proved that it’s really just about constantly adapting to what suits you at the time.

This article is brought to you by Fitbit. Fitbit's family of fitness products help you stay motivated and improve your health by tracking your activity, exercise, food, weight and sleep. AIA Vitality members can save up to 25% off the recommended retail price of a Fitbit device when it is purchased through the AIA Vitality website.

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Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.