How to Exercise Without Changing Your Schedule
By Isaiah David
Many people are scared away from exercising because of the time commitment. Serious gym rats can spend 10 hours or more at the gym each week, much more time than many of us have. Even if it is inconvenient, exercising is far too important for your health and mental well-being to let slide. Even the busiest schedule has gaps in it, and with a little creativity you can fill those gaps with healthy workouts.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Decide on your exercise goals. At the very least, you should exercise vigorously for 20 minutes three times a week, or lightly to moderately for half an hour five times a week. It's best to exercise for at least 20 minutes at a time, but if you don't have time, you can divide your exercise into smaller segments. You should also try to stretch before and after each session, which can add another 5 minutes.
Exercise on the way to work. If you can, bike or walk to work. If this isn't an option, try parking a bit further from the office or getting off of the bus a couple stops earlier and walking briskly the rest of the way.
Exercise during breaks. During lunch breaks, take a quick jog, then come back and eat your lunch at your desk. If you have a five- to 10-minute break during the day, do some quick exercise. You can jog in place, do jumping jacks, crunches or push-ups.
Exercise during your down time. If you watch TV after work, workout while you watch it or do exercises during the commercials. If you have a regular night out with friends, try to talk them into playing some basketball instead of getting drinks or doing other sedentary activities.
Bike instead of driving when you run errands. If the destination is nearby, it will only take a little longer to get there, and you will get some exercise.
About The Author
Isaiah David is a freelance writer and musician living in Portland, Ore. He has nearly five years' experience as a professional writer and has been published on various online outlets. He holds a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan.
