Exercise:
Finding the Time in even the Busiest Schedules

If you are ready to start an exercise program but concerned that you just don’t have the time, think again. The following ten tips will have you working up a sweat several times each week.

Tip 1 – Be prepared
Pack a gym bag and keep in on hand. If a meeting is cancelled or you have a few extra minutes don your sneakers and hit the nearest trail or sidewalk. This tip works best if you don’t fall into all or nothing thinking. So you can’t do an hour at the gym today? Isn’t a short run better than nothing at all?

Tip 2 – Consider a home exercise program
Get the right equipment. You don’t have to run out and purchase the latest and most expensive exercise gear and/or equipment. You could simply invest in a good pair of running or walking shoes, an exercise ball a treadmill or jump rope. Keep the equipment out where you can see it. Exercising at home gives you a great deal of flexibility as you can do it anytime.

Tip 3 – Divide the time
Break your exercise down into several short periods. Ten minutes here and there can add up and offer the same benefits of a longer workout session.

Tip 4 – Get family and friends involved
Feel guilty about neglecting the people in your life to hit the gym? Why not include them for fitness and fun? Hit the hiking trails on the weekends or pull out the bikes. You might even take a long walk. If you have little ones buy or borrow a jog stroller. Everyone will enjoy the fresh air and the opportunity to spend time together.

Tip 5 – Don’t forget your lunch hour
Take time to sharpen the saw by getting in a workout during your lunch break. Scout the health clubs or parks in the area and plan a daily jog or walk. You might also consider exercising immediately after work before you become involved in other activities. Enlist a friend to help you honor your work out dates.

Tip 6 – Rise a little earlier
Sometimes it just doesn’t seem that there are enough hours in the day. If you can manage it, get up an hour or so earlier to get your exercise in. It may be difficult at first but will get easier with time.

Tip 7 – Review your priorities
Are you spending time on things that are no longer important to you? If so, eliminate outdated obligations and fill the time with your new priorities such as exercise.

Tip 8 – Think of exercise as a social activity
Probably not the usual first date but a mountain hike can be a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, stay in shape, and save a few bucks.

Tip 9 – Foot it
Leave the car at home when you can and let your feet take you where you need to go.

Tip 10 – Count movement
You don’t need to be in sweats to get some exercise in you just have to move. Wear a pedometer and aim for 10,000 steps throughout each day. You can get there easily by taking the stairs, getting up to change the channel, pacing at work while you take calls or taking a short walk around the office every hour or so. You will clear your head and burn a few calories to boot.

Finding time to exercise can be a challenge, but with a little creativity and flexibility you will soon be on your way to a work out plan that works for you.

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