If you think that you just don't have time to fit in a workout, think again. Give your thoughts on fitness
a new look, and you can make the time, amid your busy schedule. Rethink
exercise as something that you can fit into your existing schedule
rather than something you have to do at a certain time and place. For
busy people, there are a few strategies you can take up that will get
you on the way.
- Wear a pedometer. This little electronic device keeps track of your
every move, and will really motivate you to take the stairs or avoid
the short-cut. When you can actually see how many steps you take in a
day, you may find that you are more motivated to go the extra
mile...literally. Seeing the progress in black and white, knowing that
you are getting exercise
into your day, with out even trying sometimes, can really be
mood-lifting and will push you to take even more steps the following
day!
- Find a work out partner. Find a friend or colleague that shares your
same fitness and health goals, and make a pact. Walk to lunch from the
office together. Make a date 3 times a week to go walking or biking or
jogging. Instead of sitting and gossiping during your 15 minute break,
take a few laps around the parking lot. Make them keep you accountable,
and vice versa.
- Take the long way. Instead of emailing your co-worker in the cubicle
down the hall, talk over there to have your conversation. Or instead of
taking the escalator or elevator at the mall, take the stairs. And
instead of cruising the parking lot looking for the closest space, park
as far away as you can. Be thankful that you have legs that work, and
you aren't confined to a wheelchair!
- Suggest "walking meetings". You are able to walk and talk at the same
time, right? See if you and your boss can go over the new clients ideas
while walking the parking lot. Or catch up with old friends over a walk
around the park, instead of over dinner and drinks. Enjoying the
scenery will give you a lift, and even inspire a few new ideas.
- Play with your kids. Children have seemingly endless energy, so let
it rub off on you! Take your kids, or your niece and nephew, or your
friend's kids, to the park and run around with them. Go to the beach
and play in the surf, just trying to stand up and not get knocked over
by the waves takes energy, and burns calories. You have to spend time
with your family and friends anyway, so make it an active date.
- Schedule your workouts
wisely. If you know you have to get to work by 8, don't schedule the
7am workout. You know you will not be able to get a full workout in and
get to the office in an hours time, so get up earlier and take the 6am
slot. Or schedule your workouts after work so that you can stay as long
as you like. Don't sell yourself short on workouts, because you are
only cheating yourself. Use your time wisely.
by Chris McCombs
