“I don’t have time to work out!” So many of us have found ourselves saying this at one point or another. I know at one point I certainly did. But the benefits of exercise are undeniable, and thus worth the time commitment. Exercise is helpful for improving physical appearance, weight management and building muscle. Daily movement can improve cardiovascular function, help prevent heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and strokes.
Other forms of exercise can help prevent arthritis, osteoporosis and can help improve balance to prevent falls.
Not to mention the mental and emotional benefits of regular, consistent physical activity. Exercise improves focus, concentration, and enhances mood. Studies have shown that just 15 minutes of aerobic exercise was equally as effective as an antidepressant for some forms of depression. Walking around the block often improves outlook and helps reduce stress.
But when you’re short on time, how you do incorporate daily exercise into your busy schedule? Let’s look at 5 ways you can unexpectedly make time for exercise.
1.) Scenic Route
Park away from your office, trip to the store or school and walk. These small walks add up through the day. In fact, studies have shown that small bursts of exercise throughout the day are more effective than one long burst.
2.) Take the Stairs
Take the steps instead of the elevator. If you are going between floors, walk up the steps. Need a quick break in the afternoon – walk up and down a few times.
3.) Short Circuit
Check out a quick 12-15 minute circuit program online, or make one of your own. If you have 20-30 minutes between meetings, classes, or school drop offs, quickly run through your circuit of exercises 2-3 times, and you’re done! Consistent, but short workouts like these can quickly add up to at least an additional hour of activity per week.
4.) Home Multitask
Household activities like cleaning, organizing or other projects can be great chances to get the blood flowing. Put on upbeat music to get you going, and try things like increasing your tempo and adding bodyweight exercises between movements. You’ll be surprised at how these minor changes can really add up.
5.) Play + Work(out)
Incorporate exercise into your leisure activities. Try something new like dancing, hiking, swimming or a fun group workout class you have always been curious about.
6.) Be Strategic
If you are gym goer, try going to the gym at the least congested hours. With less gym occupants, you can move through your workout more quickly without having to wait for a machine. Or consider buying some essential gym equipment, and choosing days to workout at home. You’ll ultimately save on the travel time.
Time scarcity can be a real hinderance to becoming and staying active, and ultimately reaping all the benefits of consistent exercise. Try these tips to decrease your lack of time, and increase your physical activity.
By: Brittney Anderson
