I don’t have time to exercise.

This is usually a first thing I hear whenever I talk to a new client or somebody, who is thinking about incorporating exercise into their lifestyle.

What’s really interesting is that these people seem to honestly believe it.

Source

OK, so here’s a strategy:

If you are finding it hard to find some time to exercise, write down when you get up and what time you go to bed. Also write down how many hours you spend at work. Then subtract these work hours from your ‘I am awake’ hours. How many hours are you left with? Then look at your work routine – do you work shifts or do you have a fixed schedule? Do you have free weekends or any free days during your week? Write everything down and look at is as a project. Then start planning your workouts in advance; write them down into your diary and treat them as you would another work meeting. Once it’s all scheduled and planned, you are more likely to do it.

If you know that once you get to work, you won’t be able to have a break, plan your workout before or after work. I suggest to do it first thing in a morning because that way they will be less likely to skip it. I have worked 12+ hours days and know how emotionally drained we can be after a long day at work. As soon as you get up, put on your workout gear (it’s one of my favourite tricks – once my workout clothes are on, I am less likely to skip my workout. ) Put your running shoes on and go for a 30 minute run. Or do a home DVD workout. Or go to your local gym on your way to work. Extra 30-60 minutes a day won’t take that much of your free time away and you will feel energized and more positive for the rest of your day.

If you seriously struggle with morning workouts, try to find a gym near your work and go there during your lunch break or straight after work. When you pack your gym kit and take it to work, you are less likely to skip your workout as opposed to you going home first and then exercising. Let’s face it, once you get home, there’s that comfy sofa that’s looking at you calling your name. You may also start feeling a bit hungry and start thinking about cooking a dinner… Too many distractions to handle sometimes!

If you don’t have a gym near your work / home, look into an alternative of running or cycling to your work. Or power walk to get you started. You can get off your train / bus a few stops before your work and power walk the rest of your journey. Remember – starting exercising is about making it part of your lifestyle. The goal is to be active and healthy. Exercise doesn’t have to be punishing or draining. It should be something that will de-stress you and make you a happy.

Find something that you enjoy doing – join a local dance club, learn a new skill in martial art, give climbing a go, learn how to roller blade. Take your kids to a local park and throw some frisbee or play some footie. Teach your kid to cycle. Take your partner for a long hike along the coast.

Our bodies are designed to move. But claim that move. Make it your own, something that makes you smile when you think about it. And don’t postpone it. Start it today!

Are you struggling with time management? Fancy sharing your thoughts with me?

V.