Making Time For Exercise: The Ultimate Balancing Act

So you want to get fit, perhaps drop a few lbs, lower your cholesterol, relieve stress or perhaps have a sports specific goal such as participating in a charity 10k run etc. The first step to achieving your goal is making time for working out. This can be quite a balancing act for those who work full time, have families and/or significant others, and may have other social obligations and commitments as well. A challenge yes, but cetainly doable if you can strategize and prioritize a certain amount of time per week for YOU. Depending on your fitness goals and time constraints, this can mean dedicating just 3-4 hrs per week but for some, as much as 10+. Of course this all depends on many factors and training goals. Nonetheless, everyone can find 3-4 hrs a week to spend on their health and fitness.

Even so, it may require a bit of re-orging your days/weeks. For some, exercising first thing in the morning works, and is a good way to rev up for the day as well as "get it over with and done". For others, that is not an option and perhaps a lunch time blast workout can fit in. Still, some prefer after work before going home. It really doesn't matter when as long as it works in YOUR schedule and lifestyle.

If you choose to workout in a Health Club/Fitness Center, CONVENIENCE is key. If it isn't located in your "normal" radius of daily travel, the likelihood of adhering is slender. It seems that if you have to drive to get there, chances are you are going to breeze right by!

Another important factor is condensing and prioritizing some quality time for your self. Perhaps this means shaving a hour or two from your evening television watching or getting up an hour earlier 3 days a week or eating your lunch at your desk after a workout. If you are really serious you can find a way!

Having a commitment to a class, a personal trainer, or signing up for a charity event run/walk is another motivating factor to make sure you comply. Encourage your co-workers/colleagues/family members to join you. The more support you have the better.

Afterall, being in good physical and mental shape increases quality of life, keeps you feeling younger and is a great way to re-channel stress.