How to Fit Exercise Into Your Busy Schedule

Make a commitment - even a small one - to exercise seven days a week. Begin with 20 minutes of activity every day; this can be broken down any way you need it throughout the day.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Athletic Shoes
• Food/exercise Journals
• Athletic Gear
• Free Weights Set
• In-line Skates
• Mountain Bikes
• General Fitness Videos

1. Try walking, biking or skating to work. If this takes longer than your usual commute, plan ahead: Pack your briefcase and lay out your clothes the night before. Remember to have an extra set of clothes at work for a quick after-commute change, if necessary.

2. If an alternate commute is impossible, get off the bus a little earlier and walk the rest of the way, park at the far end of the lot or take the stairs instead of the elevator.

3. Make use of your lunch break. Play a quick game of racquetball, make a speedy gym visit, go for a jog or take a brisk walk (use some light hand weights for a bonus workout).

4. Stretch at your desk. This reduces muscle tension, gets your circulation moving and prepares you for more strenuous activity later.

5. Do some chores. Mow the lawn or rake the leaves for 20 minutes. Housework burns calories, and you have to get the work done anyway.

6. Play games with your kids. Shoot some hoops, play some hopscotch or toss a ball.

Tips & Warnings

• New moms can join an aerobics class specially designed for moms and their babies. You can network with other moms, stay fit and keep an eye on the baby.

• Enlist the company of a buddy - you can support and motivate one another.

• Carry around a notebook and keep a record of your activities and their duration. As time goes on, increase the amount of exercise per day.