Deep down, we all want to be healthy and have more energy in our daily lives. Achieving a synergy between our body and mind can be a major difference maker in just about every facet of life. But two major things that stand in our way—a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine—are often neglected due to our hectic lives.
We’re always busy. Whether it’s work, school, family or other commitments — the story is always the same. But what if we told you there was a way to change all this? You’ll have to put in the work, but the practice is simple in theory.
Keep reading to learn how to fit workouts into your busy routine.
Realize Busy is just an Excuse
This is the first, and most important step of it all. In order to integrate workouts into your daily routine, you need to first stop using “busy” as an excuse. Everyone is busy, and those who aren’t wish they were. The most accomplished and successful people in the world have jam-packed schedules, yet still manage to get exercise on a regular basis. What’s your excuse, again?
Making Time in the Middle of the Day
Most people who work out consistently do so in the morning. If you have time in the evening, that’s great too. But if you can’t clear time in the morning or evening, consider taking a break in the middle of the day to get your heart rate up.
Take a walk around where you work, or bring extra clothes and go for a jog. Perhaps there’s a gym around the corner you can steal away to for an intense heart rate boost. You’ll be using your time effectively and returning to work with a refreshed, focused state of mind to finish out the workday.
Keep in mind that adults need about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, or 75 minutes of more intense activity, to stay healthy.
Socializing while Working Out
Just going out on a limb here, but it’s doubtful you neglect social events because of your busy schedule like you decline to work out. So why not accomplish two events in one? Schedule a game of basketball with friends, go on a lengthy walk, jog around the neighborhood with a friend, or even take a fitness class together.
Repurpose Everyday activities
There are permanent fixtures in our everyday life — from when we rise to when we rest —countless opportunities exist to optimize your daily habits or responsibilities around working out.
For example, if you don’t commute light years away, consider riding your bike to work, or maybe taking the bus and getting off a few stops early to walk. If you’ll be home watching the kids or preparing dinner, you may as well use that time wisely by exercising in the home. Look up YouTube videos, or buy some aerobics and workout videos.
I’ve personally tried one of the best dance workout DVDs from Bombay Jam. An hour and a half of non-stop moving to the traditional dances of Bollywood and Top 40 music will be more than enough to get your heart pumping and functioning how it should.
Hopefully you now have a clearer understanding of how to fit workouts into your busy routine. If you happen to have any other tips for workouts done on a busy schedule, let us know in the comments section!