Too Busy is a Mindset...
One of the most common barriers I hear when it comes to fitness and a regular exercise program is that people are “too busy.” It’s definitely a common excuse, but it’s not a good one. I can say with certainty that we all make time for the things that are most important to us. For the cohort that is “too busy” for exercise, the common theme is that it just isn’t something valuable. I can’t make exercise important to you, and I hope for your sake your health doesn’t force the issue, but I can outline some helpful tips to make exercising easier and more convenient.
Master the mindset - This is probably the hardest one to tackle, but also the most important for your longterm success. Fitness and nutrition are largely mental. If you believe you can’t do it, you’re right, but if you believe you can, you will crush your goals. Don’t let self-doubt keep you from becoming who you want to be. Keep your mind guarded, and find the value in healthy diet and exercise.
Set an alarm - This one is painful for some people, but as someone whose alarm is set for 3:45am 4 days per week, I can’t back it up enough. As a wife and mom of 4 small kids, I realize it’s hard to find time throughout the day to schedule exercise, and by 8pm I am ready for bed. The way I ensure dedicated time to myself through exercise is by doing it before the kids (and the sun) are up. This sets my day up for success, and gives me energy. If you work out first thing, you’re also more apt to adhere to clean eating.
Bring a buddy - Arguably one of the most difficult parts of regular exercise is the accountability piece. If you aren’t particularly motivated to reach a goal, answering to yourself isn’t always the best course of action. Get involved in fitness with a friend, spouse, or even a personal trainer, so that you’re always motivated to show up.
Schedule your workouts - It may lack spontaneity, and that’s okay, because fitness should be intentional. Schedule your workouts the way you schedule your meetings, and they will remain a priority.
Be prepared - As a trainer, I always have workout clothes on me if I’m outside the house. This allows me to meet someone at the gym last minute, or get a workout in if I have extra time (yay doubles!). If you are always prepared, you can use pockets of time to accomplish some sort of exercise, even if it’s 15 minutes at a time. While time under tension and extended periods of exercise are beneficial, if your current workout routine is non-existent, anything is progress!
Lastly, consider RUNNING your errands - I recently decided I would run a book to a girlfriend at her job because it wasn’t too far and I wanted the exercise. Look for the times and places that using your body to achieve a task is possible. Maybe you can bike to work, or to simple errands (I need my large car to grocery shop, no doubt)… Being open to exercise when the opportunity arises can help add to your daily fitness.
You are the only one with the power to change your habits. I have complete confidence that you have what it takes to create a healthy lifestyle for yourself. I hope in time everyone would find value in taking care of their bodies through diet and exercise.