How to fit exercise into your life (when you have absolutely no time)

In today’s fast-paced world, it can feel like exercise is one of the first things that need to go by the wayside. Staring down a sink full of dishes, an urgent email from the boss, hungry family members, or a social engagement you swore you’d attend, you just don’t have time for it, right? Wrong! There are plenty of workouts you can do without committing too much time. And with so many benefits, it’s time to start taking fitness off the backburner. Here are a few easy and fun ideas to get fitness back into your routine without putting aside any important responsibilities

Multitask during your workouts

Many people take for granted how much time we spend on social media, watching YouTube, or streaming our favorite shows. Screen time has become an integral part of winding down after a hard day’s work and that could be good news for those looking to improve their fitness. While some might suggest dropping the amount of time spent on these activities in favor of working out, we’re here to offer another idea: getting two activities for the price of one. There’s no reason you can’t catch up on Squid Game while jogging on a treadmill, pedaling a bike, or lifting some weights. In cases where the screen might be too distracting alongside the exercise, opt for a podcast or some music instead. Engrossed in your favorite show or listening to your favorite creators, you can count on your workout to fly by.

Utilize YouTube for variety and convenience

Speaking of social media sites, one of the most popular can also function as a great tool for those looking to explore shorter workout options for when they have very little time to spend at the gym. YouTube offers a great resource for learning about diverse types of workouts such as Pilates and yoga and offers videos from many creators who are also professionals. The best part is that many of these workouts are in the 15-minute range, providing a great resource for those wanting to develop a short workout plan for themselves.

Schedule your workouts like you schedule your meetings

If you’re like us, we schedule out our days with our work and personal commitments. Start scheduling exercise sessions on your calendar and you can plan around them. That way you have to get to them.

Get up even earlier

If you can get over the hurdle of waking up a little earlier, there are some serious benefits to the AM workout.

• You’ll be getting your workout out of the way first thing so you can focus on the rest of your day. Because exercise is the first thing on your to-do list, it’s far less likely to get trumped by other things on your schedule.
• You’ll boost your metabolism to burn more calories for hours after you finish exercising.
• Finishing a workout before work gives you a feeling of accomplishment, which is a huge mood booster. 

Schedule a short session with a personal trainer

When pressed for time you may find it most beneficial to consider hiring a personal trainer. Working with a personal trainer ensures that you are getting the most out of even short sessions and meeting your personal workout goals. Plus, having an external motivator to get you in the door can help you resist the urge to blow off your workout in favor of another task. OT Fitness offers 30-minute sessions with our certified personal trainers for just this reason: to make sure even our busiest clients make the most of each workout.

So, whether you’re thinking about renewing a commitment to the gym (especially ahead of those New Year crowds) or you want a few extra options for those days where a full workout feels impossible, consider giving a few of these a try. With over 20 years of experience in the Anaheim Hills area, we know what it takes to help you crush your workout no matter how pressed for time.