No Time for the Gym? No Problem

We all know that exercise is important for our physical and mental health. But with busy lives, it can be difficult to find the time for regular workouts. If you’re struggling to make time for your workouts, here are 8 tips on how to fit them into your schedule:

1. Schedule Your Workouts

Set aside specific days and times in advance so that you don’t forget about them or let other commitments take priority over exercising. Treat your workout time like any other important appointment or meeting. Put it on your calendar and make it a non-negotiable commitment. This will help keep you accountable and motivated.

2. Incorporate Fitness into Your Routine

There are several methods to include extra exercise in your everyday routine. Even small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away from your destination, can help increase your daily activity levels. Walking your dog for longer distances or using a restroom at the other end of the building are other simple ways to stay active.

3. Break It Up

If finding 30-60 minutes each day seems impossible, break up your workout into smaller chunks throughout the day—10 minutes here, 20 minutes there. Doing short bursts of activity still counts towards your overall fitness goals. For example, while waiting for laundry to finish, the kettle to boil, or dinner to be ready, you can do light exercises like skipping, squats, or sit-ups.

4. Morning Exercise

If you have a hectic daily schedule, a good time to exercise is in the morning. Getting up half an hour earlier than usual allows you to go for a brisk stroll, jog, or work out at home. Exercising in the morning can help you get active without taking time away from important activities later in the day.

5. Get Creative

You don't have to spend all your time at the gym to stay active. Find activities you enjoy, such as dancing, swimming, or hiking, and make time for them. You can also try different forms of exercise like online yoga classes, outdoor activities like running or biking, or even doing bodyweight exercises at home.

6. Use Technology

Take advantage of apps like Fitbit or Nike+ Run Club, which track progress and offer personalized advice based on your individual needs and goals. These apps also provide motivation through reward systems and leaderboards to help you stay committed.

7. Exercise While Getting to Work

Walking, jogging, or cycling to work would be ideal, but if that's not possible, you can still get some exercise in. Whether you're driving or taking public transportation, try bracing your abs as hard as you can for 10 seconds while sitting. Repeat this 5-10 times for a quick ab workout.

8. Prioritize Sleep

Getting enough restful sleep is just as important (if not more) than getting daily exercise. Without adequate rest, we become less productive during our waking hours, making it harder to achieve fitness goals. So, make sure you prioritize sleep alongside your exercise routine.

We often stress about finding the perfect time for exercise, which can prevent us from getting any at all. Making time for exercise, even if it's just 5 to 10 minutes at a time, is the first step toward making it a habit. So, start today.