Fitting Fitness Into A Busy Schedule

Have you been sticking to your New Years Resolution? In a world full of fitness influencers, weight loss medications, and fad-diets the ways to reach your physical fitness goals seem limitless -- but what is actually sustainable and what is going to make you feel GOOD? We are so busy that sometimes a quick fix may seem easier than putting on a pair of tennis shoes and getting a workout in. Here are some tips for making changes to your daily routine to create healthy habits that may help you reach your fitness goals and increase your endorphins (because endorphins make you happy, and happy people don’t kill their husbands – Elle Woods).

1.  Why?

While we are all motivated by different things, I try to get my workouts in as a form of stress relief. Others may exercise to manage their weight or practice functional strength training to help the aging process. Helping to identify what motivates you will help create reasons to workout when you are looking for an excuse.

2. Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail

I will write my workouts into my paper calendar (yes, I still use a paper calendar) so that it becomes a part of my daily routine. I also make sure to pack whatever clothing I am going to need for that workout the night before. I know exactly what I am going to be doing and what I am going to be wearing.

3. Not every workout has to be your best

Women operate on a 28-day hormonal cycle, meaning not every day is going to be the best workout you’ve had. But remember, the hardest part is showing up for yourself. If your energy is low, try something low intensity like a walk outside or yoga. Most importantly, if you need to rest, listen to your body.

4. You don’t need to spend an hour and a half at the gym every day

I recently learned the phrase, “how do you cook a frog?” You start the frog in cold water and slowly increase the heat. Do not overwhelm yourself by starting out at the gym every day for an hour and a half. Most days, I only have thirty minutes to get my workout in and that is a win for me!

5. Apps

If you are struggling finding a workout that you enjoy doing, I highly suggest looking into apps that allow you try different workouts, either virtually or led by an instructor. There are endless options of workout apps that you can tailor to your needs to help get you to your desired results.

6. TREAT YOURSELF!

If you are staying consistent and reaching your goals, treat yourself to a new pair of jeans or maybe a cute workout set. You deserve it!

As women we give so much of ourselves to everybody else, we need to remember to pour that love back into our cups as well. There are 168 hours in a week, you deserve at least 5 for yourself.

Article written by Lindsay Romah