It’s not easy finding time to exercise. It’s especially not easy to find the time if you’re starting from scratch. We all know there are a lot of things we think we’d rather be doing then sweating and waking up with achy muscles the next day. That is of course unit you bite the bullet and realize how great exercise makes you feel! Exercise is a clear priority when you realize how much it affects your physical and mental health. Between work, and running the kids from place to place it’s understandable that making the choice to maintain a exercise program can be a challenge. But guess what? You don’t need a ton of time to get health benefits from exercise. You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment either! Here are a few tips to help you get started, and stick with a fitness routine.
- Recognize quality over quantity
Research has shown that you receive similar benefits when comparing endurance workouts to interval training. Basically, when you up the intensity your workouts (quality over quantity), you can build fitness in less time. So 10 or 20 minutes giving it your best, can be as good as an extended endurance routine. This goes for strength training as well. Increase your weights for shorter sets and less time, and still receive the benefits of stronger, toned muscles.
- Be Prepared
You’re at work and find yourself with 20 minutes to spare. Although thats not a lot of time, if you have your workout gear with you, you at least have the ability to do a few things if you choose. Three sets of pushups, squats, and jumping jacks is a lot easier in the pair of sneakers you keep in your trunk, then it is in high heels or your slippery bottomed wing tips.
- Walk, Run or Ride your Bike for Errands
Not all of us live close enough to the store to do one of these, but a good portion of us do! Need a few groceries from the market? Hop on your bike and peddle there. Get creative and throw a backpack on for all your goodies to bring home. Going to pick up take-out (yes we all do it once in awhile)? Walk there, or better yet, make it family/friend time. Lets get everyone involved!
- Schedule Ahead
Believe it or not, it is possible. Although all those have to do’s are calling to you, taking a half hour or hour a few times a week will make you more productive for the things you have to do. Your mind will be more focused. You’ll have more energy for your kids and spouse, your pets, and most importantly, you. Exercise follows along the same path of, what you put in, the more you’ll get out. Work hard and reap the benefits.
- Include Fitness in your Social Time
A run with your partner, fast walking with friends while catching up on the week, pushing your kids on the playground swings, or playing on on intramural sports team. It
all counts. Make a pact with our partner and friends that before you go out on the town for that fancy dinner and umbrellaed cocktail, you’ll commit time for activity. You’ll have double the fun!