Making a New Years resolution to be more active is one thing, but sticking to it is a whole different story. Once mid-January roles around, we all start to realize why sticking to a workout schedule was so difficult in the first place. Carving out time to stay active and fit can be extremely difficult and many of us don’t always have the time to dedicate an hour a day to working out.
Thankfully, there are tons of amazing tips and tricks to keep you on the right track. You don’t have to get disheartened when you can’t find time to fit in a full workout. Learning how to incorporate these 10 tips for sneaking in a workout during your busy day will help you stay on track and keep you focused on your goal. #BeTheResolution this year and don’t give up!
Tip #1 – Leave a pair of dumbbells at the bottom of the stairs. Each time you have to walk up the stairs, pick up the dumbbells and bring them with you. When it’s time to go back down, pick them up and carry them down. It’s that simple!
Tip #2 – If you’re drinking as much water as you should be (8 or so glasses a day), you probably take frequent trips to the bathroom. Take advantage of the fact that you’re up and about and use it to your advantage! Try doing 10 squats every time you use the bathroom. Who knows, you could end up doing 100 squats by the end of the day!
Tip #3 – Most of us talk on the phone many times throughout the day. Instead of sitting and chatting, try getting up and walking around while you talk. You can pace around your home, office or if the weather is nice enough, walk outside.
Tip #4 – Practicing good posture is a great way to stay fit all day long. Proper posture helps strengthen your core muscles. A strong core will protect you against workout related injuries and best of all, you’ll be that much closer to that killer six pack you’ve always wanted.
Tip #5 – Wake up just 10 minutes earlier than you usually do. Before hopping in the shower, do 50 crunches and 50 push-ups. Being active first thing in the morning is a great way to jump-start your day. One good choice leads to many more!
Tip #6 – Errands can be extremely time consuming and can often keep us from working out when we want. Next time you have errands to run, try parking further away from your destination. Choose a space in the back of the parking lot and walk the rest of the way. Every step counts.
Tip #7 – Do you catch yourself rewinding after a long day in front of the TV? Don’t worry, we all do it. An awesome way to incorporate physical activity into an otherwise motionless activity is to do jumping jacks during commercial breaks. You’ll be amazed at how strenuous those 3 or so minutes are!
Tip #8 – You don’t have to feel as if you’re wasting your time when you’re waiting in a long line. First of all, you’re standing, as opposed to sitting, so you’re already ahead of the game. Put in the extra effort by doing some simple calve raises – just raise onto your tippy toes, and lower yourself back down. Alternatively, you could do some ab flexes. Repeat one or both until you’re at the end of the line.
Tip #9 – Most of us already have at least a couple reusable bags. Next time you need to do some light grocery shopping, don’t forget to bring them with you. Instead of placing your bags back in the cart to take to the car, carry them! For an extra bonus, do some bicep curls with the bags in each arm. You’ll be helping the environment and your arms, all at the same time. (Use this tip in conjunction with tip #6 to maximize your results).
