Now, more than ever, we’ve pulled in so many different directions that it’s so hard to find time to fit it all in. We have a million responsibilities as well as distractions everywhere. It’s hard to find time to juggle your career, family responsibilities, social life, Netflix binges… ok maybe that last one is just me. Hopefully, I’m not alone!
And when push comes to shove, some things have to go. And unfortunately for some, exercise is the first thing that is easy to brush off. But because you’re reading this post, I know you want to BETTER exercise in a SHORTER period of time.
That’s why I want to give you a couple of quick ideas on how to integrate exercise into your already hectic day. Of course, all these may not be applicable to you, but hopefully, you can take a few tips with you this week to prioritize getting your workout in!
My Top 5 Tips to Integrate Exercise Into A Busy Lifestyle
1. Exercise first thing in the morning- you’ll be less likely to create excuses.
Let me preface this by saying I’m NOT a morning person… I never have been and I’ll probably never be! BUT- exercising first thing in the morning is where it’s at. Doing it first thing means that it’s out of the way, and you won’t be likely to skip it if you wait until later in the evening. You know the story, after work there becomes a whole slew of excuses as to why you don’t want to exercise- you’re tired, hungry, busy running around with kids, making dinner, bedtime routine, and can’t forget Netflix!
But one thing that’s absolutely NECESSARY if you decide to get up earlier for exercise, is that you have to go to bed earlier. No excuses. Making the trade-off between sleep and exercise is a bad one, and you’ll probably feel worse because of it. So shut the TV off 30 minutes earlier and get to bed!
2. Don’t bother putting on “exercise clothes,” especially if you’re training from home!
Exercising doesn’t need to be that big of a deal- especially if you’re doing it in the comfort of your own home! Don’t even bother with the whole “put your gym clothes on” and get ready to exercise- just do it. In whatever you’re wearing right now (ok, maybe not if you’re wearing high heels!). Barefoot, sports bra or not, sweatpants, or even PJs… just do it.
OR, if you’re like me, just get dressed and ready in your gym clothes so you don’t have to worry about getting changed! I swear, the other moms won’t care if you show up to school drop-off looking sporty AF, just rock it, girlfriend!
3. Keep fitness gear where you can see it.
If you’re opting to train at home, this is super important. I know it might mess up your feng shui, or is not very Marie Kondo approved… but keep the dumbbells and yoga mat where you can see ‘em. If they’re locked away in the closet or basement, you’re not likely to drag it all out to do it. Plus, out of sight, out of mind! When you’re not visually reminded of your commitment to exercise, it can be easier to just straight-up forget.
4. Make exercise a priority- schedule it just like any other important appointment.
This is a biggie. Schedule your workout like any other important appointment such as dentist, lawyer, client meeting, etc. If you’re just flying by the seat of your pants and thinking “I’ll just get it done at some point today”, guess what- it probably won’t ever happen. Schedule it in! Block off at least 30 minutes in your calendar to warm-up, do the workout, cool down, and get back to your busy day.
Along the lines of scheduling your workouts, grab a friend to do a fitness date with! It’s so fun to train with a buddy, and a great way to keep you accountable too. Instead of meeting for coffee or happy hour drinks, try meeting for a sweat-sesh to keep you both moving in the right direction!
5. Include your kids in your workout.
If you have kids and you’re trying to exercise at home- it can be really challenging. As soon as they see you doing YOUR thing, they want ALL of your attention! So instead of trying to fight it or waiting until your precious alone time while they nap, try to include them! Kids love to play along, and you’ll be setting a great example for them as they grow up.
And lastly, something is always better than nothing. Don’t get into the mindset trap that you have to go to the gym and do a 60-minute workout. Even if all you do today is stretch & savasana for 15 minutes, remember that something is not nothing! All these little action steps build over time until we start incorporating these little habits become a lifestyle.
Keep practicing SHOWING UP for yourself, even when life gets busy. Make a habit of keeping yourself a priority, and navigating the gray area between “all” and “nothing”.
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