Beginning of the school year, continuing work, whatever it may be, it is a busy season. Just look at your calendar. I know mine is full. But, my physical health is still very important to me. I make sure it is a priority. But, every else is a priority, too–work, school, family, etc. How can we balance it all? How, or why, should we fit exercise into our busy, busy lives?
Well, first of all, Russell Clayton, an assistant professor of management at Saint Leo University, said in a statement. “We think exercise is a way to psychologically detach from work — you’re not there physically and you’re not thinking about it either — and, furthermore, it can help us feel good about ourselves.”
Exercising is also a great way to relieve stress–think of all the endorphins you are using! Those positive hormones push the negative feelings right out of your body–it’s like doing a mental detox! You are also improving your health and working toward a better you, which means you are being goal-oriented and productive. By getting in that mindset, you are more willing and capable to accomplish the rest of your busy day.
There is no right or wrong answer to how or when to fit in exercising into your busy schedule. The important thing is to fit it in, period. And there are plenty of different ways to be able to do so.
Make a Plan A and a Plan B
Put exercise down into your calendar or to-do list. If you right it down, you are more likely to do it. Schedule it out for a specific time. When you specify the time and the length, it more than likely will happen. But, if it doesn’t, try to make a Plan B to still fit it in. Remember, your physical health can affect your mental and emotional health and vice versa. Don’t cheapen its importance!
Use Your Commute and Your Office
Ride a bike or walk to work rather than drive. Or, you could even use public transportation. There are many small exercises you could do standing up on a train or a bus–calf raises, high knees, twists, etc. Even use your office. Stand more than sit (it’ll also help you from getting carpal tunnel as easily). Walk around every now and then. If your boss lets you, get an exercise ball to sit on rather than an office chair. This will also help your balance and posture! Use your office furniture to do quick 5 minute sessions. Don’t take the elevator or escalator–use stairs ONLY
Make it a Date
Take your significant other to the gym. Meet up with a friend at the gym rather than at a coffee shop. You can still gossip while you workout. Take your kids to the playground and watch them play as you exercise. For family night, go to the baseball field and play a game of baseball or soccer with your kids.
Use the Treadmill, Elliptical, and Staionary Bike
Bring your textbooks (if you are a student) and place them on the treadmill or elliptical. Study and read while speed walking. Answer emails, run your online business through your phone as your use the stationary bike.
Exercise While Winding Down
When you are watching TV, just vegging, don’t veg. During commercials, do a few exercises. Play TV exercise games like these found on Pinterest. Stretch and meditate right before you go to bed. This will help you be less sore in the morning and less anxious. You will be at peace in mind and peace in body.
What other tips do you have to balancing exercise with busy schedules?
