Six Tips for Finding Time to Exercise When You’re Busy
Work and family obligations can make it tough to commit to an exercise regime. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults should do at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Since hitting the gym for an hour may not always be possible, we’ve gathered six tips for finding time to exercise when you’re busy.
Kitchen Calisthenics
While water is boiling or food is simmering, try squats, lunges, and calf raises. For an arm workout, do incline pushups against the countertop. Alternate between traditional pushups (elbows out) and tricep pushups (elbows in), which focus on different areas of the arm.
Dance Party!
Turn off the TV and turn up the music. Kids especially love this tip because they can join the fun! The key is to pick upbeat music that gets you moving. A typical song lasts around 4 minutes, so make your own Dance Party playlist. Just three to four songs will provide a 12 to 16-minute burst of aerobic exercise.
Exercise while you’re watching TV
Who says you must sit while watching your favorite shows? Store a few items of exercise equipment in a basket next to your TV. If they’re easily available, you’re more likely to use them. These can include resistance bands, weights, a yoga mat or even a hula hoop.
Walk to the copy room
Yes, it’s convenient to have a printer in your office but send your documents to the community printer instead. It forces you to leave your desk and walk to retrieve them. Although you won’t work up a sweat, it gives you a few minutes to stretch your legs and get the blood flowing. It’s also a great way to give your eyes a rest from the blue light emitted by computer screens.
Exercise on your lunch break
If an early morning workout isn’t your cup of tea and evenings are too hectic, try exercising during your lunch break. Find a fitness center close to your office or use the area around your building for a brisk walk, jog or run. Not only can you squeeze in 30 minutes to an hour of exercise, but it also helps to clear your head and refocus for the rest of the day.
Exercise during work
Some days you just can’t leave the office, so fit in workout time right next to your desk. Keep a set of weights nearby to pump out reps while talking on the phone. Use your chair to do tricep dips. Squats, lunges and calf raises don’t need any equipment and are great leg-toning exercises. From stand-up desks to mini fitness bikes, there are plenty of products available that can help keep you moving at work.
Exercise has many benefits, so we hope you can fit in extra workout time with these tips. If you experience any pain from exercising, please reach out. At Live Well Chiropractic Center, we help treat and prevent pain and injury through our focus on nutrition support and supplements, exercise and spinal health. Schedule your appointment today by calling 513-285-7482 or email info@livewellcc.com. Be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for our latest updates and tips!