Question: I have read that you need to exercise at least an hour 3 to 5 days a week. I don't have time to exercise for an hour, how do I fit exerercie into my busy schedule?
Answer:
Exercise myth – you have to work out for at least 60 minutes to get a good workout.
Just not true! It’s common for people to get into an ‘all or nothing’ mindset about working out. Skipping exercise can make you feel guilty and unmotivated and less apt to continue a regular exercise program long term. It’s great to carve out an hour each day to workout, but who has the time in your hectic schedule? Consider working out anyway, even if it’s for a few precious minutes. All of those minutes add up to additional energy, better focus, and a leaner healthier body. Here are some ideas to fit in a couple minutes of exercise into your day without even trying.
- Take a 5 minute break a couple times a day at work, and walk up and down the stairs.
- While making dinner (or cleaning dishes) put on some music and dance your way to a clean kitchen (this works well with vacuuming too!)
- Walk the dog. Even 10 minutes will get your blood pumping, and your dog will love you even more!
- Walk the mall. Try parking on the farthest side of the mall from where you are going to shop, then walk to and from your chosen store. This is great when the weather outside is bad, you are inside where its warm.
- Park farther from the store front. This is a commonly suggested option, though still a good one.
- Use your Wii Fit for 15 minutes. Don’t feel like you have to do 30 or 45 minutes to get all the benefits, even 5 minutes at a time will pay off.
- Stretch. What? How does this help you ask? Stretching helps to relieve stress and tight muscles, regardless of why they are tight. Even 10 minutes of stretching before bed will help you sleep better and feel livelier the next day.
