Thursday, November 3, 2011

How to Fit in a Workout, Day After Day

It might seem impossible to be able to fit in a workout, day after day, but with the right planning, a can do attitude and simple behavioral changes this can be an achievable goal for almost everyone. The trick is to examine your current schedule and see where a workout naturally could fit into the rhythm of your day instead of trying to shoehorn it into a place where it will never fit.


For many, getting a workout in first thing in the morning is an ideal choice. Exercising in the morning gets you off to an energetic start to your day and unlike working out in the evening, will not interfere with your ability to fall asleep. In fact, a workout first thing in the morning can help you establish healthier sleep patterns which will allow you to fall asleep easily at night and get a full night's rest.


If you would like to start your day with a workout, determine how much time you'll need to make it happen. Don't overlook taking the time to eat breakfast! Once you figure out how early you'll need to wake up, stick with that wake up time every morning even on days when you are not planning on working out. You'll learn to enjoy the quiet hours to yourself and most importantly you will have established a good sleep pattern which will make the rest of your life happier and more energetic.


Some folks are not early birds and might do better with a midday workout, perhaps during their lunch hour at work. Before you commit to doing this, figure out how you will make it happen. Will you have time to work out and shower and eat? If you find that it's not possible to fit in a vigorous workout during your work day, perhaps it would be feasible to do something less sweaty like a brisk walk. Anything that gets you moving is good for your body!


For those that get a second wind in the evening, before or after dinner can be a good time. Be aware that exercise too close to bedtime can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Exercising on a full stomach can be uncomfortable although most people can take a long walk after eating. The important thing is to find a time that works for you so that you can stick with it. Keep a positive attitude and you'll find that you can indeed fit in a workout, day after day.

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