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Let’s face it – we are ALL busy with life, work, kids, pets, etc. and trying to squeeze in eating healthy and doing workouts is HARD. However, there is a solution and one of the biggest and easiest things you can do is: MAKE A PLAN AND PRIORITIZE.

When you plan and prioritize, anything is possible. Here are some tips to help you make time for exercise with a busy schedule:

1. Plan for it:

   • Treat your workout like any other important appointment. Put it on your calendar and stick to it.
   • Choose a specific time each day for your workout, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or in the evening. Mornings can be great because you get it done first thing and then you don’t have to skip your workout if something comes up later or if you are tired after work. However, it can be hard for some people to wake up early. But once you do it a few times, it gets easier and becomes your new normal routine!

2. Prioritize:

   • Make a list of your daily activities and identify less important tasks that can be minimized or eliminated to make room for exercise.
   • Recognize the importance of physical activity for your overall well-being, and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.

3. Combine activities:

   • Look for opportunities to integrate exercise into your daily routine. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator or walk or bike to work if possible.

4. Short, intense workouts:

   • You don’t need hours to get a good workout. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and short, focused workouts can be very effective in a short amount of time.

5. Break it up:

   • If finding a continuous block of time is challenging, break your workout into smaller sessions throughout the day. For example, do 10 minutes of stretching in the morning and a quick workout during your lunch break.

6. Be efficient:

   • Choose workouts that provide maximum benefit in a short amount of time, such as circuit training or compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

7. Wake up earlier or go to bed later:

   • If your mornings or evenings are less hectic, consider adjusting your sleep schedule to make time for exercise.

8. Stay organized:

   • Plan your workouts in advance, and have your gym bag or workout gear ready to go. This reduces the time and mental energy needed to prepare for exercise.

9. Accountability:

   • Exercise with a friend or join a class. Having someone else relying on you can help you stay committed.

10. Make it enjoyable:

    • Choose activities you enjoy, so working out feels less like a chore. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing a sport, finding something you love makes it easier to stick with.

Remember, consistency is key. Even if your workouts are shorter or less intense than you’d like, the most important thing is to establish a routine that you can maintain over time. Listen to your body, and make adjustments as needed based on your schedule and energy levels.

If you are still really struggling even after trying some or all of the suggestions above, a personal trainer can be another great option. They can motivate you and hold you accountable. The hardest part is just showing up. Once you show up to do your workout and complete it, you will thank yourself later!