How to Fit Exercise In When Life Gets a Bit Much

Life has a way of throwing curveballs and sometimes, it feels like there’s no time to fit in a workout.

After events over the summer, I can completely relate to this. Back in July, I was talking to a friend of mine who was concerned about a neighbour’s cat that was expecting kittens and in some distress. After the initial excitement of finding and rescuing a cat family, we thought we’d find a foster family to look after them. Unfortunately, all the local cat charities were over-committed, so they stayed with us. My partner and I became the foster family!

At the time, I was so busy with work and our cat family that finding time to work out and stay motivated was the last thing on my mind. However, I did manage to keep doing some things. With Christmas fast approaching and a busy time of year for all, I wanted to share some of my learnings.

Prioritising fitness doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym or an overly complicated routine. Here are some practical strategies to help you fit exercise into your busy schedule.

Micro Workouts

When you’re pressed for time, micro workouts can be a game-changer. Breaking your exercise into smaller chunks throughout the day can be as effective as a more extended session. Try doing a 10-minute workout in the morning, at lunch and in the evening. These mini-sessions can quickly add up.

Introducing more movement

Add more movement to your day by walking to do errands, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further away from the shops. These small actions can make a big difference over time.

Use Technology

Leverage apps and online platforms that offer quick workout routines for inspiration and to track your progress. These tools can keep you motivated and ensure you stay accountable. Whether it’s a 7-minute workout or a fitness tracking app, technology can help you fit exercise into your schedule.

Make It a Family Activity

Get your family involved in your workouts. This helps you stay active and sets an excellent example for your loved ones. Go for a family walk, have a dance party around the kitchen, or try a fun workout video together.

The Importance of Non-Negotiables

Identify your non-negotiables and the exercises you enjoy or find most beneficial and treat them as your baseline so that even when life gets hectic, you still do them.

• Weekly PT Session: The one you’ve financially committed to.
• Preferred Class: That yoga, Pilates or spin class you love.
• Home Routine: A short but effective workout you can do at home.

The Power of Commitment

Personal Trainer Accountability: Working with a personal trainer isn’t just about expert guidance; it’s also about accountability. When you know someone expects you to show up, you’re more likely to stick to your schedule and put in the effort. Trainers can provide personalised workouts, track your progress, and adjust your routine as required.

Financial Investment: Paying for classes or personal training sessions upfront creates a financial commitment and makes you more likely to follow through. This investment can serve as a motivational tool, making it harder to skip workouts and easier to prioritise them.

Structured Routine: Scheduled classes and personal training sessions help establish a routine. This structure can be a lifesaver when juggling various responsibilities. Block time out in your diary and make fitness a non-negotiable part of your week.

Community and Support: Group classes or personal training sessions offer a sense of community and support. Being part of a fitness community can provide additional motivation and accountability. You’re more likely to stick with your goals when you feel supported and connected with others with similar ambitions.

Quality Over Quantity: In today’s busy world, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to spend hours in the gym to see results. Prioritising a few high-quality, weekly workouts can be more effective and sustainable than fitting in more frequent, less effective sessions.

Focused Workouts: 2-3 decent-intensity workouts each week. These sessions should target multiple muscle groups and incorporate strength training and cardiovascular exercise where possible.

Efficiency Over Duration: Shorter, more intense workouts are often more effective than longer sessions. Consider incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates between bursts of intense activity and periods of rest or low-intensity exercise.

Proper Form and Technique: Ensure you have proper form and technique with the support of a trainer will help prevent injuries and make your workouts more effective.

Balancing fitness with a busy life can be challenging, but it’s possible by being a little organised with the right mindset. By incorporating micro workouts, leveraging technology, setting realistic goals, and prioritising quality over quantity, you can stay active and healthy even when life gets a bit much. If you would like to chat about how to build a personal training plan as a non-negotiable, please get in touch!