Monday, October 22, 2012

How Busy People Can Squeeze in Time for Exercise



There barely seems to be enough time to go to work, take care of your family and home. To squeeze in time for an exercise routine seems impossible. And the truth is, that if you’re planning something out of the ordinary, it may well be impossible.

If however, you simply plan on increasing your physical activity throughout your normal routine, you’ll find yourself accomplishing a lot.  Here are some suggestions:

Get up 30 minutes earlier. Sure it sounds great, but when the alarm goes off, it’s really easy to hit the snooze button and roll over for a few more minutes of rest.  So a successful morning exercise routine depends on planning the night before. Try this…

  • Place your exercise clothing and shoes out the night before as a visual reminder that this is what you want to do.
  • Write in your journal the benefits you anticipate from exercise, whether your goal is to feel more energetic or fit into a special outfit for an upcoming event.
  • Set an easily obtainable goal, maybe once around your block. As soon as your half way around, you’ll be awake enough to include a couple more blocks before heading home.
  • Write your accomplishment on your calendar so you can track your progress.

Turn everyday chores into an exercise routine.

  • If the school is close enough, walk your kids to school.
  • Do you need to go up/downstairs to transport laundry or something else? After delivering your load, do more stair laps until your heart rate increases.
  • Do you need to take something to the garage? Extend your trip to include a couple of times around the yard.
  • When bringing groceries and supplies home, use them for weight lifting as you put them away. Canned goods or jugs with secure handles make great weights.
  • Step up the pace as you mop, vacuum, scrub, or mow the lawn. All of it counts!

Squeeze in more activity at work.

  • Wear your walking shoes to work so you’re in the mindset for exercise. Once you’re in the office, you can change to your business shoes.
  • If you ride the bus, get off a couple of blocks early and walk the rest of the way.
  • Instead of a coffee break, go for a stair-climbing break.
  • Form a lunchtime walking club with workmates. The extra support helps.
  • Deliver memos in person rather than relying on the phone or emails.

What’s your favorite way of sneaking in some exercise? Please share it with us. The key is making exercise convenient and part of your daily habits. Would you rather hit the gym and let someone else do the household chores? If you live in the Silicon Valley, contact us at Simplify and we’ll set up a complimentary consultation.

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