Finding the time to exercise isn’t always easy. There’s work, school, activities, appointments, meetings, errands, chores, and many other things that can get in the way of exercise. Sometimes going to the gym or out for a run just isn’t possible. So, what is one to do when life gets in the way of staying fit? You may not have time for an hour at the gym, but most people do have time for some small bursts of exercise throughout the day. Below you can learn 8 ways to sneak more exercise into your busy day, and afterwards, maybe you can think of other ways that would work for you.
- Park further from your destination than you have to. When you go to the store or to an appointment, don’t park close to the door. In a big parking lot, you can park in the last spot. If it’s a small parking lot, park further down the street. Just getting in those extra steps every day can help you not be completely sedentary.
- Use the stairs. Instead of taking the elevator or escalator, use the stairs. Walking upstairs will help your cardiovascular system and it will help you strengthen your legs including your glutes (your butt).
- Take advantage or waiting in lines or other times you have to stand still. Anytime you are stuck in line or waiting somewhere you can do stationary exercise. You may be self-conscious about how you look doing exercises, but don’t let that get in the way of living a healthy life. While you’re in line or maybe while you’re pumping gas, do toe ups for great calves or bodyweight squats to make your butt look great. You can also run in place or do alternating lunges. There are so many exercises you can do for a few minutes at the time while waiting.
- Exercise during commercials. If you have television shows you just won’t miss, exercise during the commercials. Commercials are wasted time, but you can reclaim it for your health. Do sit-ups, crunches, push-ups, squats, lunges, you’re really only limited by your imagination. There are so many ways to exercise during commercials. If you have dumbbells or a kettlebell, you can use that.
- Walk around when on the phone. With mobile phones and Bluetooth, walking around while talking on the phone has never been easier. While you’re talking to your mom, kids, sister, friends, and even some clients, just walk around. If you need to be near a desk just pace back and forth in front of it. All of the extra steps will add up, and if you want to monitor it, you can use a Fitbit or other fitness monitor.
- Play with your kids. If you have children, nieces or nephews, grandchildren, or other kids in your family, take some time out to play with them. Something as simple as “Follow the Leader” will give you more exercise. Most children love staying active, so it will be easy for you to be active if you’re playing with them. They will also love the attention and time you’re spending with them.
- Ride your bike. If you have a bike, you may want to consider riding it to work or for some errands. Make a game out of seeing how many times you can use your bike instead of your vehicle.
- Get up 15 minutes earlier. This might not be a popular idea, but just waking up 15 minutes earlier in the morning can give you a few extra minutes to do a short workout before your shower. There are many bodyweight exercises like lunges, squats, push-ups, and crunches that you can do during this time. You can also choose to do yoga or Pilates. There is a lot you can do in 15 minutes that will help you improve your fitness.
If you’re too busy for the gym, you may consider adding exercise and movement throughout your day instead. You have just learned several ways to do this. Hopefully, this will get you to thinking about what you can do throughout your day. There’s always time to improve your fitness, even if it’s with small bursts of movement during your day.