How to Fit An Active Lifestyle into a Busy Schedule

By Canadajobs.com Staff

job, jobs, career

You've been wanting to get in shape but you don't feel like you have any time. Your job keeps you busy and once you're home, you don't have the time or energy to work out or exercise. What can you do? Here are a few tips to get in some exercise where you never thought possible.

Commuter?

If you commute, you have a perfect opportunity to exercise. If you can, get off the bus a few stops before you usually do. The walk will likely do you some good. You'll be able to clear your mind, relax, and unwind before you get home.

Going Up?

If you work in a high-rise and it's safe, try taking the stairs. Don't do any more than you feel capable of, especially if you are just starting off. Work your way up slowly. You can take the elevator half-way or two-thirds of the way, then walk to the rest. You'll be amazed at the exercise you are getting. And stairs are a great way to get into shape.

Walk When You Can:

By parking further away, you can get in a walk where you never thought you could as well as saving yourself a lot of frustration and anxiety that is associated with trying to find the best spot. And this doesn't have to be just at work. Try it when you go grocery shopping and at the mall. You'll be amazed at how your anxiety decreases when you aren't fighting for a parking spot right next to the door.

When you're running quick errands, try walking. Sometimes, it's not really quicker to take the car when you factor in traffic and parking.

Motivate:

Support is one of the best ways to help ensure you'll be able to continue exercising. Why not start a lunchtime walking club at work? Gather a few people from your office who have similar goals and plan a walking circuit. Invest a bit of money into getting a pedometer. You'll be amazed at how little time it takes to rake up actual kilometers. Set some goals for yourself and for the group and celebrate when you achieve them.

Learn How to Manage Your Time:

Often we think we don't have time to exercise, when really, we aren't managing our time properly. If you are self-employed, work from home, or have a flexible work schedule, make sure you spend your time efficiently. Checking email, re-reading reports, and unnecessary meetings are all great examples of time wasters. Set yourself a goal, how much work you'd like to accomplish, and once you've reached it, give yourself a break and reward yourself with your favourite form of exercise.

Fitting exercise in a busy lifestyle just takes a little creativity and thought. Sneaking exercise in your daily routine is easier than you think. You can walk around your neighbourhood, the office, or when running an errand.