P.R.E.T.T.Y.
Exercise for
Busy People
Let’s face it: Most of us have busy schedules that don’t allow enough time for exercise. With everything from parental duties to work responsibilities, some of us barely have room for anything outside of bedtime. It takes a bit of creativity to work in gym time. However, if you can’t make the gym fit into your busy schedule, there are other ways to get in a good workout throughout the day.
Take the stairs. Taking the stairs is an excellent way to burn calories. You can set a goal to climb a certain number of steps daily. If you don’t have access to stairs, you can do step-ups at your desk or wherever you are. To do a step-up, stand with one foot on the floor, raise the knee on the opposite side toward your chest, and then back down. Switch legs and repeat.
Walk during breaks.
Walking is by far the easiest way to burn calories and requires no special skills or equipment. Rethink how you communicate in the workplace. Walk to your co-workers’ desks instead of calling. Walk around the office during your break instead of snacking. If you drive to run an errand, park further away from the building to get in those extra steps. Consider purchasing a fitness tracker to set daily step goals to motivate yourself to walk more.
Do chair exercises at your desk. Exercising while sitting is the way to go if you have a busy schedule. You can do a quick chair fitness routine at your desk, sitting in the waiting room, or at home on the couch during a movie. You can take lightweight dumbbells for quick sets of various arm exercises. You can use your body weight to do leg lifts, curls, and stretches. You can also invest in a portable cycling device that you can use wherever you are and whenever you feel like burning calories.
Ride your bike to work. Riding your bike to work is a fun way to begin your day, especially if you live in a small town. Breathing fresh air helps declutter your brain and prepare you for the day.
There are many ways to engage in exercise, even if you have a busy schedule. You need to be committed to living a healthier life.
Ronni Walker is a certified personal trainer and nutritionist with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in mass communication. She is committed to helping people transition to and maintain healthy lifestyles through the P.RE.T.T.Y. Girl Fitness project. You may contact by sending an email to coach@PGF.life.