Between my full time job, running a blog, side projects, friends and family, I find it impossible to fit in exercise. My schedule some weeks is jam packed and it can feel impossible to stick to a gym routine, plus I’m too tired.
I struggle with fitting in a workout but I know that exercise is so important to staying healthy.
Not only will your body thank you but exercising releases happy endorphins that can boost your mood. Focusing on your physical health also helps your mental health! This year, I’ve made a commitment to my body. I’ve decided to focus more on being healthy and just scheduling some movement during my day. Also, I want to finally learn how to swim, but that’s a story for another day!
Here are my 5 tips to stay healthy and exercise with a busy work schedule :
Make Small Changes in Your Everyday Routine
I find that the first and MOST important step towards incorporating a healthy exercise routine admiss your busy schedule is to WANT it. Your mind is powerful and you need to firstly, decide to commit to something.
If you can’t find time to fit in full gym session, why not make small changes that you can commit to!
For me, I try to incorporate more movement in my day by doing things like taking the stairs when I go for coffee.
I’ve started to park further away from my destination to get more walking in, and even love having a walk during phone meetings. Another option is to even workout while you’re watching your favourite TV show. I use these little opportunities to get more exercise on a busy schedule.
I also have this standing desk at work and it is SO helpful. I’ve had a couple times where I feel my left leg pull from my hip to my feet and it’s SO uncomfortable. My chiropractor said that it’s due to my sitting posture, but also because my core isn’t strong enough and all the weight is on my back. Hence, I even try to do some light stretching as I work!
Make an Exercise Date With Yourself
The hardest part is actually making the commitment, I get it! I have been trying to workout consistently forever. It’s one of those things on my new year resolutions that never get done- till this year!
A quick shout out to Steve Nash Fitness! They reached out wanting to give me an annual pass to the gym and it has played a huge role in getting me to the gym!
I’m someone who likes to plan out my schedule ahead and I find that if I actually schedule in exercise during a busy week, it forces me to get up and go.
I try to pick a day when I know I won’t have too much to do when I get back home and put it as a priority when I leave the office. I prep my gym clothes the night before (heck, I wear my gym clothes to work) and bring them with me so I have no excuse.
Since December last year, I can proudly say that I’ve been to the gym to exercise at least 2 times a week- with the exception of weeks where I’m sick. I’m SO happy about it because honestly, it has taken me so long to get to this point.
Even on days where I just don’t want to go, I force myself to because I always feel great after. It’s a date with myself to be present and strive for health. Vanity is just a bonus!
Keep Yourself Accountable by Bringing a Friend
When Elbert and I started dating 4 years ago, he would suggest workout dates and I would always just scoff. Like no.
Now, we always workout together every week and it’s so great!
It helps when you have someone who wants to exercise because, let’s be real- it’s more fun when you have a friend!
If you’re also trying to balance seeing your girlfriends, why not try an active date?
When I make plans with someone else, I know I’ll always follow through because I don’t want to let them down! It doesn’t have to be a regular gym session either. Make it fun by trying something new like spin class, yoga or even a hike! I also tried snowshoeing this year to switch it up. You can always hit up happy hour after. *wink*
Mix Up Your Exercise Style
I never really understood this up till this last little while!
Now I do! I get the whole leg, arm, back wtv day! I try to spend about 40 minutes during each gym session and during that time, I’ve found a good rhythm.
Prior to this, I didn’t know what all the equipment at the gym was and it’s daunting! Especially with all the fit people heaving and sweating everywhere. Like, I don’t want to look lost!
I can surely say that I do really like the Women’s Only section at Steve Nash- because it kind of takes the pressure off!
What I’ve done is try to incorporate different types of workouts into my routine and not put too much pressure on myself to learn what to do in one sitting. I’ll look up exercises in advance so I know what to do when I get there. I’ll even try taking a few exercise classes here and there to mix up my week. This helps me to save time and still get to do everything!
I also find classes are so helpful since you have a live instructor encouraging you to move. I’ve tried out spin, but my heart is with dance workouts!
Don’t Feel Like Every Workout Has to be An Hour Long
Omg this!
For the longest time, I always thought that people are CRAZY for dedicating 60 minutes daily to exercise. Ain’t nobody got time for that!
Now I realize, that each workout session can be flexible!
For a workout to be effective, it doesn’t have to last an hour or more. If I know I’ll have a pretty busy week, I try to commit to 3 shorter but efficient workouts that week.
You’re basically giving it your all in a shorter amount of time. Best part, there are lots of online resources you can find so you can do this from your own home. Blogilates is a great option and all it takes is 30 minutes out of your day.
First and foremost, remember that exercise is meant to be fun. I try to remember that by committing to exercise, I am committing to keeping myself healthy.
After being more consistent with exercise, I’ve noticed my skin has gotten better and my mood has definitely been elevated.
Sometimes a little bit of movement can really help you de-stress from a busy day.
Make yourself a priority girl, you deserve it!
I hope these tips help you like they helped me! My schedule honestly hasn’t gotten less busy but it makes a HUGE difference when I strive to include a healthy exercise routine within that schedule.
Tweet me if you have tips of your own @otisamantha
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Until next time Samsational babes,
xoxo Sam