Learn to fit fitness into any schedule.
What is the #1 reason for not working out? Not enough time.
As a mom of 2 very active teenagers and as a wife that works full time, who is almost always training for a race, I get it. It’s hard to find the time to work out. There was a time when running and workouts were the first thing to get pushed to the bottom of the priority list if on the list at all.
How I Fit Fitness Into A Busy Life and Make It Work
First, you need to identify why this is important to you. What are the benefits of making the effort to find time?
1. There is nothing quite like the feeling of a completed workout.
2. A good night’s sleep. Most, if not all, of us have read how important it is to get enough sleep. I sleep better when I work out consistently.
3. Your health is definitely worth the time and effort. I am healthier and more fit than ever before.
4. Mood and an overall good feeling. I’m a better mom and wife when I make fitness a regular part of my life.
5. Lose and maintain weight. That is a no-brainer!
6. Boost your confidence. Accomplishing goals, seeing progress and making positive changes can do nothing but boost confidence.
Second, you need to come up with a plan. How am I going to fit running (or whatever you prefer for cardio) and working out into my life?
1. Identify non-negotiables. The first thing I did was list all of the things in my life that I had to do as opposed to all the things I wanted to do. For example, taking my kids to school, dinnertime, going to work, etc.
2. Make your fitness a priority. Commit the time and stick to it.
3. Cancel the gym membership. Workout at home. This one little change made the biggest difference in the consistency of my workouts, progress and success. This change also eliminated the often used excuse of just getting home from work and not wanting to drive anywhere. Bonus: Use the money you save to buy a new workout outfit, a fitness DVD or hand weights!
4. Get up early. I was the most successful, consistent and saw the most progress when I started working out and/or running in the morning. I found the early morning to be the time that was least likely to be interrupted by phone calls, appointments, errands, etc. And I can honestly say there is not a better way to start the day.
5. Make it a habit. My workouts are like brushing my teeth and getting dressed.
Write it on your calendar. Just like you would a doctor’s appointment or school activity.
6. Put out your clothes the night before. Maximize your time for working out with as little prep as possible especially if working out early in the morning.
7. Find a fitness program that you enjoy and can be done at home. Endless options online, in magazines and DVD programs. Find what you like and you’re more likely to stick with it.
8. Track your progress. Use either paper and pencil or an online tool to keep track of your progress. Seeing the proof of your progress will make the difference between a skipped or a completed workout.
9. Turn it off. For me this is the computer. For you this may be turning off the TV. Whatever your “off” needs to be, determine what is negotiable and if how you’re spending your time is moving you toward your goals. If it’s not either reduce the amount of time or stop all together. – Look closely at how you spend your time and consider reducing the time spent on some activities or even stop some altogether.
It takes 21 days to create a habit. Start with a commitment of 21 days to a healthier and happier you.
Guest post by: Jill Conyers at [Fitness, Health and Happiness] www.jillconyers.com
Jill is a wife and mom of 2 that is passionate about running, fitness and an overall healthy lifestyle. She thrives on motivating others, setting goals, attaining them and raising the bar. Living a healthy lifestyle is not about perfection. It’s about commitment, effort and progress!
Be sure to like our Facebook page and follow us on Pinterest to be the first to try out new workouts and view our latest fitness resources.