How to Fit Fitness in Your Day
Article posted in: LifestyleExercise. You know you should do it, you want to do it, but the actual “doing” of it can sometimes seem like an overwhelming chore in our fast-paced, hectic lives. I mean, who has the time? Funny thing is, you do! Because when you make the time to work out, you’re more efficient with your other time. Physical activity gives you more energy, a clearer mind and a happier outlook, which makes it easier to go out and seize the day.
National health recommendations advocate 150 minutes per week (30 minutes a day) of moderate to vigorous activity combined with at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercise. So whether you can knock out 30 minutes all at once, or break it up into 10 or 15 minute spurts of physical activity throughout the day like Nutrisystem’s My Daily 3® plan encourages, you can become the master of your exercise routine. Set yourself up for success with these fitness-friendly tips:
Prepare Ahead of Time
Success comes from planning. Without a strategy, we often get sidetracked or show up unprepared. If 30 minutes of activity is your goal, schedule it in the night before. Likewise, get all the prep work out of the way beforehand. Lay out your outfit and shoes the night before to save the sleepy-you the added morning struggle. Or, preemptively pack your gym bag so that you can grab and go. Just remember the famous quote: “To be prepared is half the victory.”
Break for Fitness
Everyone has downtime during the day. Make the most of yours by filling it with physical activity. Instead of sitting at your desk to eat, head outside for a 10-minute brisk walk. Pop in an exercise video while dinner cooks in the oven. Take the long way to the bathroom or water fountain during your workday. Park far away and take the stairs when running errands. Working mini workouts into your day can be simpler than you think.
Revamp your social life to incorporate fitness. If your tribe is used to getting together in front of the TV or at a restaurant, take the bonding session outside for a friendly game, a walk downtown, a night at the bowling alley or taking salsa lessons. Anything that gets the heart rate up will do, so just be creative.
Make it Fun
If you enjoy it, you will be more likely to stick to it. Pick activities that you like and switch it up often to avoid boredom. Upgrade your sweat-sesh with a killer playlist. Head outside at your favorite time of day to soak in some sun. Ride a bike, dance it out, garden like you’ve got two green thumbs—just don’t associate physical activity with anything you dread. There are too many options out there to settle for a routine you hate.