8 Ways to Fit Exercise into a Busy Schedule

We all know we need to stay active. It's important to invest in ourselves and our health so we have the energy to invest in our jobs, and in the people we love. But with the demands of work and family it can be a challenge to fit exercise into our already packed schedules. I have put together 8 tips to help you fit exercise into your life.

1-Schedule it

Consistency is the key to accomplishing any goal, especially health and fitness. The best way to be consistent is to make it a priority by scheduling your workouts into your day just like an appointment. As he saying goes, "We don’t find time, we make time."

2-Set your alarm 45 minutes earlier

It’s usually easier to be consistent when you get your workout in before the day gets started. You’re less likely to have unexpected interruptions that hinder your efforts. Bonus: working out in the morning will boost your metabolism, burn more calories, and give you more energy for the day!

3-Make it part of your lifestyle

Do something every day, even if it’s just a 15 minute walk. It takes 21 days to become a habit, 90 days to become a lifestyle. When it’s part of your lifestyle, it naturally becomes part of your day.

4-Find what you enjoy

If you enjoy your workout, you’re more likely to make time for it. It could be a particular form of exercise, or maybe it’s working out with friends. Whatever motivates you!

5-Do shorter bursts

If you can’t fit 30-60 minute chunks into your day, do several 10-15 minute bursts throughout the day. It all adds up in the end!

6-HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)

A 30 minute HIIT workout is a great way to get maximum benefit in a shorter amount of time. These should only be done 2-3 times a week, with at least a 48 hour rest in between to allow your body to recover.

7-Workout at your desk

There are many exercises you can do at your desk. Take several 10 minute breaks throughout the day. Choose a different exercise each time such as push-ups, planks, squats, chair dips, calf raises, etc. and do 2-3 sets of 12

8-Multi task

Workout while you watch TV. There are a lot of body weight exercises you can do while watching TV. Maybe even get the kids involved! Another way to multitask is to go for a walk or run while the kids are at their sport practice.

Start small. Pick one or two of these strategies to implement into your day and get started!