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Finding Time for Exercise

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Only 3 out of 10 Americans exercise consistently. Lack of time is one of the most commonly cited reasons for not working out. Finding time may be easier than you think, as Dr. David Di Paolo tells us in this week’s Fitness over Forty report.

Finding time to workout can be a challenge. Here are some ways to fit extra time into your schedule for exercise.

First, decide whether to get it done at home or go to a club. Exercising at home is cheaper and offers privacy. A health club provides more equipment, a social atmosphere, and instructors.

Next, keep an appointment book. Prioritize your schedule, and pencil in some workout time. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week. Break exercise into 10 minute chunks, if you can’t do 30 minutes straight. Do a little in the morning and a little in the evening.

Make TV watching an active past-time. Stretch and improve your flexibility while you watch a movie or television program. Use a piece of exercise equipment, like a treadmill or stationary bike. Follow along with home workout videos. There are fitness videos for many forms of exercise, including yoga, Pilates, dance and step aerobics, and strength training, just to name a few. Get a six-pack while watching the news: do abdominal crunches a few nights a week while you get caught up on headlines.

See if your worksite has exercise equipment available for employees, or if your employer has negotiated a discounted rate at a local fitness facility. Find a co-worker who’s motivated to exercise and use some of your lunch break to workout together. Walking is always a good option. If your lunch period is short, meet for 30 minutes before or after work. Having an exercise partner improves adherence and makes exercise more fun.

If you choose to go to a health club, look for one conveniently located to your house or your place of work. Pack your clothes the night before and put them in your car.

Don’t let shopping interfere with your exercise commitment. Park at the end of the lot and do 10 minutes of brisk walking. Stroll first, shop second.

Budgeting time is an art in itself. These tips should help you find the 30 minutes you need for your health.