Making Time Vs. Finding Time to Exercise
We all know how important regular exercise is for our health and well-being. Yet 80% of Americans don’t get the recommended amount of physical activity per week.
For most of us, “I don’t have enough time” sits at the top of the list of excuses to skip a workout. Yes, it takes some effort to carve out time for exercise when you are constantly juggling work, household chores, raising a family, and other commitments—but it’s not impossible.
The key is in making time vs. finding time to exercise.
Making Time Vs. Finding Time to Exercise
Words have power.
Thus, it’s all too simple to say, “I just can’t find the time to exercise,” and then call it a day. On the other hand, when you make time to exercise, you’re giving it priority. It’s no longer a secondary (or even tertiary) event that falls to the bottom of the to-do list.
So how do you do it? There are several ways you can approach this.
1. Regard It As an Appointment
Change your mindset. Don’t let your workout be optional. Treat it as a necessary appointment that’s as important as any other appointment you make.
You could put it on your Google calendar or write it in your daily planner. Then regard it as you would any work meeting or medical appointment which you wouldn’t just cancel. Set an alarm to be sure you make it there and move away from whatever else you’re doing.
One way to ensure you don’t slack on this is to always have a packed gym bag in your car so that you can’t use not having it as a convenient excuse. You may even want to put your workout clothes on before you leave work so you stay committed.
2. Become a Morning Person
You may not like this one so much, but even just setting your alarm 30 minutes earlier so you can get a workout in can make a huge difference. Then you don’t need to worry about being too tired to get your sweat on after work.
If that’s not enough motivation, there are additional benefits to exercising in the early morning. By working out on an empty stomach in those pre-dawn and dawn hours, you could just boost your metabolism and break down stored fats.
3. Sneak in More Movement Throughout Your Day
If you’re struggling to “find” time to workout, then perhaps see if you can sneak some movement into your regular day.
For example, whenever given the option, take the stairs rather than the elevator. When you’re parking somewhere, pick a spot that’s far away to get in some extra steps. And if your job is a reasonable distance from work and the weather allows, consider walking or riding your bike there a day or two per week.
Another excuse people often use is the fact that they have kids. But kids are great motivators for working out. Run races with them, have a dance party, or encourage them to start their own healthy exercise habits by scheduling time to work out with them with kids’ videos.
Just remember that a workout doesn’t have to be at an exercise studio or a gym every day. Some days, it may be enough to schedule a walk with a friend after dinner or even doing some crunches, lunges, and squats while watching your favorite TV show.
4. A Short Workout Is Better Than No Workout
If you have days where an hour workout just isn’t going to happen, that doesn’t mean you have to throw in the towel. It only takes 25 minutes to get your anabolic and metabolic systems fired up. So on those days when you’re running out of time, strategize shorter workouts that burn more calories.
HIIT workouts that include burpees, squats, push-ups, and lunges can burn ups of 15 calories per minute. Or shoot for a workout with free weights while adding extra reps. Just be sure to keep proper form!
You could even opt for 30 minutes of mindful practices like yoga or mat Pilates that will also bring ease to the mind. Any movement is better than none.
5. Focus on Proper Diet and Sleep
You’re going to be less inclined to workout if you’re not getting the proper amount of sleep and filling your body with garbage. These will leave you feeling sluggish and lacking in energy. And your workouts will be even more arduous.
So in your commitment to making time to exercise, include a diet that’s loaded with whole foods, fruits, and veggies. Keep healthy snacks such as nuts and dried fruit when you’re on-the-go.
And don’t skimp on sleep if you can avoid it. The proper amount of rest (7-9 hours per night) allows the body to recover and the muscles tissues to regenerate. Inadequate rest is a surefire recipe for injury.
At the end of the day, a healthy diet and proper sleep will help you better perform in every area of your life. So it’s a win-win.
Do You Have a Fitness Goal?
In the effort of making time vs. finding time to exercise, it helps to know what your primary motivation is.
Perhaps you’re hoping to shed a little winter weight. Or maybe you want to regain some of the strength and stamina you once had. Whatever the reason, it’s a good one. Because once you have an objective, you’re far more likely to stick with achieving it. No matter what life brings.
If you’re interested in experiencing the amazing movement systems of Pilates, GYROTONIC®, and GYRONKINESIS®, contact us today. And get inspired by your workout!