Finding the time to exercise

Currently it seems we are being hit daily with economic doom and gloom, and those of us lucky to have held onto our jobs, seem to be putting in more hours at the office. With time in short supply, one of the first things to suffer is your workout routine.

While this might seem a fair trade off, given the work-related pressure that you are under at the moment, it's important to remember that exercise can help alleviate stress, and the 'happy hormones' or endorphins it releases really do make the world seem like a better place!

Though some people are not what they would call 'morning people' and others find the thought of an evening workout repugnant, you should use whatever free time you have during the day to schedule in some exercise. It might feel a bit odd at first, especially if it is a time you wouldn't usually choose to workout, but you will be surprised how quickly you grow accustomed to such change.

There is no right or wrong time to exercise. Often we use a busy lifestyle as an reason to avoid that gym trip, or delay our run. I hear multiple excuses on why someone can't exercise, but top of the list is always that they cannot find the large chunks of time they think necessary to fit in their workout.

Well, fret no more! Here are a few ways on how you can fit exercise into your hectic lifestyle.

• Don't be too rigid with your timetable. Sure, you are used to taking an hour or so for lunch, and its great to get away from the office. However, instead of spending that time in a restaurant waiting for bills, dealing with queues etc., why not nip to the gym for a 30 minute run or weights session, and enjoy lunch at your desk? I guarantee you this is a great way to shake off the mornings tensions, and will leave you feeling fighting fit for the afternoon.
• Get up 30 minutes earlier than usual, and use that time to work out. Alternatively, instead of slumping in front of the tv tonight, try getting out and exercising. Maybe join a new class, that way it can become a social event too!
• The minute I put my son down for a nap, I make use of that time to stretch, and do some strength or core training. Its all too easy to think of that time as precious 'me' time and have a cup of coffee and a muffin, but what is more 'me' than looking after my body, and making it stronger and healthier?
• Lastly, don't always think in big time blocks. I have written before on how any amount of exercise will contribute to a longer life, so don't dismiss 15 or 20 minute chunks of time as being too short to make a difference. If you split your hour long workout into two or three mini workouts, you might find it easier to fit these in during the day. It all adds up to a healthier, happier you!

Spare me the excuses, and find the time. It may not be that obvious at first, but if you look at your day I am sure there is time in there that you hadn't recognised as the perfect opportunity to workout. Use it and enjoy the benefits of being less stressed, and more energised!