Several studies conducted in 2014 indicated that “super-short” workouts are effective in attaining health and fitness goals, the New York Times reported. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. It also strengthens muscles and joints, resulting in less pain in their shoulders, hips and knees. People who work out and keep fit are much less likely to suffer a joint injury. One of last year’s studies revealed the benefits of a daily workout that begins with walking briskly for one minute, then strolling for a minute, and repeating the process six times.

Research volunteers who did the exercise had better blood-sugar levels than others who instead took normal, 30-minute walks. The study, which a group of New Zealand researchers published in Diabetologia, featured nine men and women diagnosed with insulin resistance (which often leads to Type 2 diabetes). Each volunteer walked at a regular pace on a treadmill for one-half hour, completing the task 30 minutes before eating a meal. The scientists measured blood-sugar levels that day and the following day.