Ten great ways to fit exercise into a busy schedule

We all know that exercise is good for us, but it is often difficult to fit it into the daily routine.  If you would like to improve your exercise or simply just move and stretch a bit more then, this article is for you.

Incorporating exercise into a busy schedule might seem challenging, but it's entirely possible with good planning and smart choices. Here's how you can make exercise a regular part of your routine, even if you're pressed for time:

1. Set Realistic Goals

 Start by setting achievable goals. If you're new to exercising, begin with short, 10-minute sessions and gradually increase the duration. Remember, even small amounts of physical activity can have significant health benefits.

2. Incorporate Activity into Your Daily Routine

 Look for ways to include more physical activity in your day-to-day life:

 Take the stairs instead of the lifts or elevator.

Instead of asking a family member to get something for you from upstair or another part of the house, challenge yourself to get up and walk up or down the stairs to get it yourself.

Park further away from your destination to add some walking. If you have children and do the school run daily, here is an opportunity to set off earlier than usual and park further away from the school gate.

Consider biking or walking to work if possible.

Stand or do stretching exercises during breaks if you have a desk job.

If you can, arrange some work meetings over a phone call and walk whilst having your meeting.

Stretch or jog on the spot if you have a long stretch of Microsoft Teams meetings but remember to turn your camera off and keep your focus on the discussions being had.

3. Schedule Your Workouts

Treat your workout sessions like any other important appointment. Block off time in your calendar and stick to it. Early morning workouts can be particularly effective as they're less likely to be interrupted by the day's events.

 4. Choose Efficient Workouts

Select activities that offer the most benefits in the least amount of time. High-intensity interval training (HIIT), circuit training, and full-body strength exercises can be done in about 30 minutes and still offer significant health benefits. Doing small amounts of exercise is a great way to stay healthy. Small bouts of 10 minutes movements during the day is just as good. Dr Michael Mosley also tells us why shorter bursts of exercise might actually be better than a full stretch of work out in this podcast.

 5. Make It Social

 Incorporate social elements into your exercise routine to make it more enjoyable and motivating. Join a sports team, attend group fitness classes, or schedule regular walks or runs with a friend.

 6. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Fitness apps and online workout videos can be great resources for fitting exercise into a busy schedule. Many offer short, effective workouts that you can do anywhere, anytime. Did you know that you could even get paid to work out? Now, if that’s not enough motivation, then I don’t know what is!

 7. Be Flexible

 If you miss a workout, don't stress. Look for opportunities to be active in other ways throughout the day. The key is consistency over the long term, not perfection on any given day.

 8. Focus on Activities You Enjoy

 You're more likely to stick with an exercise routine if you enjoy the activities. Whether it's yoga, swimming, cycling, or dancing, choose exercises that make you feel good.

9. Keep Equipment Handy

Having a jump rope, resistance bands, or a yoga mat easily accessible can encourage spontaneous physical activity, especially during breaks or while watching TV.

 10. Track Your Progress

Monitoring your activities can motivate you to keep going. Use a journal or an app to record your workouts and celebrate your successes.

Great ways to fit exercise into a busy schedule- Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed today’s article on ways to fit exercise into a busy schedule. If so, enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Finding time for exercise in a busy schedule requires creativity and commitment, but the benefits to your heart health and overall wellbeing are well worth the effort. By making exercise a non-negotiable part of your day, you'll not only improve your physical health but also gain more energy to tackle your busy lifestyle. Listen to this podcast on why you should not worry about going to the gym, instead try to do small bursts of exercise during the day.

What’s your favourite way to fit exercise into your daily schedules? Please comment and let us know what more you would like to read about.