Why Five Minutes of Exercise a Day May Not Be Enough

By VirentaNews Staff — June 23, 2026

The idea that just five minutes of exercise a day can lead to significant fitness gains has gained traction in recent years, with many proponents claiming that brief, intense workouts are the key to a healthier lifestyle. However, according to Prof Devi Sridhar, chair of global public health at the University of Edinburgh, such claims are likely exaggerated. As someone who has spent years studying the effects of exercise on public health, Sridhar is skeptical of any study that seems too good to be true, and for good reason.

The Science Behind Short Workouts

While it is true that some studies have shown that short bursts of exercise can have positive effects on cardiovascular health and metabolism, the evidence is not yet conclusive. A closer look at the data reveals that many of these studies have methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes or short follow-up periods. Furthermore, the vast majority of research on exercise and fitness has consistently shown that longer, more moderate-intensity workouts are more effective in achieving significant health benefits. For example, a 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that adults who engaged in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week had a significantly lower risk of mortality compared to those who did not meet this threshold.

The Fitness Community’s Obsession with Optimization

The fitness community’s obsession with optimization and hacks has led to a proliferation of online influencers and self-proclaimed experts touting the benefits of short workouts. While some of these individuals may have achieved success with their own fitness journeys, their claims are often based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific fact. Moreover, the constant pursuit of the latest and greatest workout trend can lead to a culture of unrealistic expectations and unhealthy comparisons. As Sridhar notes, this can be particularly damaging for individuals who are just starting out on their fitness journeys, as it can create a sense of discouragement and disillusionment when they are unable to achieve the same results as their online idols.

The Trade-Offs of Brief Workouts

While brief workouts may be better than nothing, they are not a substitute for longer, more sustained periods of physical activity. The benefits of exercise are numerous and well-documented, but they are also dose-dependent, meaning that the more exercise one does, the greater the benefits. Furthermore, brief workouts often lack the variety and progression that are necessary for continued fitness gains. For example, a workout that consists of only five minutes of burpees or jump squats may be intense, but it is unlikely to challenge the muscles and cardiovascular system in the same way that a longer, more varied workout would. As such, individuals who rely solely on brief workouts may find that they plateau quickly, or that they are unable to achieve the same level of fitness as those who engage in longer, more moderate-intensity exercise.

Why the Timing of This Trend Matters

The timing of the brief workout trend is also noteworthy, as it coincides with a broader cultural shift towards convenience and instant gratification. In an era where everything from food to entertainment is available at the touch of a button, it is perhaps unsurprising that many people are looking for ways to shortcut their fitness journeys as well. However, as Sridhar and other experts have noted, fitness is not something that can be achieved overnight, or even in a matter of weeks or months. Rather, it is a long-term process that requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to make sustainable lifestyle changes. As such, the brief workout trend may be a reflection of our societal values, but it is not necessarily a healthy or sustainable approach to fitness.

Where We Go From Here

So what does the future hold for the brief workout trend? In the next six to twelve months, we can expect to see one of three scenarios play out. Firstly, the trend may continue to gain traction, with more and more people turning to brief workouts as a way to fit exercise into their busy lives. Secondly, the trend may begin to lose steam, as people become disillusioned with the lack of results or the unsustainability of such a approach. Finally, we may see a shift towards a more nuanced understanding of exercise and fitness, one that recognizes the importance of variety, progression, and sustainability. Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: as we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize evidence-based approaches to fitness, rather than relying on fads or quick fixes.

In conclusion, while the idea of achieving fitness in just five minutes a day may be appealing, it is unlikely to be an effective or sustainable approach for most people. As Sridhar and other experts have noted, fitness is a long-term process that requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to make sustainable lifestyle changes. By prioritizing evidence-based approaches to fitness and recognizing the importance of variety, progression, and sustainability, we can work towards a healthier, more active future for all.

Source: The Guardian