When life gets really busy, it’s easy to let your workouts take a back seat to the many other things you’ve got going on. But to me, I feel best when I’m exercising on an almost daily basis, so I make it a priority to fit in it even when I’m crazy busy.
I’ve been in New Jersey visiting my loved ones for the holidays for over a week, and although I’ve had a lot going on, I’ve managed to exercise 6 out of the 8 days I’ve been here. Here are a few tips that work for me for fitting in exercise during especially busy times (or just in general!):
Schedule it out. Be a planner! Every night when I’ve gone to bed while on the East coast, I think about my agenda the next day and where/how I could fit in exercise. I make a commitment to myself to just do it, and then I make sure to follow through.
Do it first thing in the morning. Normally I don’t exercise in the AM, but I find that when I’m home in Jersey, it’s better for me to just workout right when I wake up. Usually things are quieter in the house, and then I can start my day off healthily and get it out of the way before my social engagements.
Have workout options planned. Jillian Michaels’ DVDs have been my go-to workouts here. I brought a bunch of her exercise DVDs home with me, and I’ve been squeezing in my sweat sessions in my parents’ living room. My favorite workout this trip has been her Ripped in 30 DVD. I did the 2 hardest workouts on the DVD this morning and was dripping sweat!
Be realistic. When it comes to exercising and healthy living in general, it’s not all or nothing. You don’t need to workout as frequently, as long, or as hard as you normally do to still be effective with your sweat sessions. For instance, I know that this week will be hectic between celebrating Christmas and staying at Adam’s dad and mom’s houses to visit them (my hubby flew into town yesterday, while I’ve been here since the weekend before), so I’ve set a goal of squeezing in at least 3 workouts throughout this week. While it’s not as much as I normally exercise, it’s a doable goal. I already worked out today so I’ve got one workout under my belt. 😉
Remember that every little workout counts. I’ve woken up an hour earlier, squeezed in short workouts if I don’t have time for long ones, and managed to get ready for my dates with family and girlfriends quicker if it means that I can get a workout in. Give yourself credit for every sweat session you do, and know that each and every one is benefitting your health.
Questions: What are your tips for fitting in exercise during the holiday madness or when out of town?
These are awesome tips Nicole! It’s so true that planning workouts out ahead of time is necessary when my schedule gets nuts.
Thanks, Paula! Absolutely, I think that planning is the only way to ensure that it gets done.
I’m like you – I get up earlier to make sure that I get my workout in – then I don’t feel like I’m taking away from time with anyone and I’m happy that it is done for the day!
Exactly! 🙂
Great job keeping up with your workouts! 6 out of 8 is awesome!
I love all of your tips too. Planning/scheduling is the best way for me to stay on track!
Thank you, Sarah! I’m trying to offset all of the cookies/wine/carbs in general that I’ve been eating haha 😉
I couldn’t agree more with your tip about being realistic. I know that tomorrow a workout is just not going to happen, so this morning I made sure to fit a half hour workout in. Something is always better than nothing right!
Absolutely, a short workout is ALWAYS better than no workout at all!