60% of Americans do not exercise regularly. Do you fit into this group?
Everyone is aware of the benefits of exercising, from the health aspects to self-esteem factors, yet the above statistics do not reflect this knowledge. The common complaint is a lack of time. While searching for ways to manage their time, few people consider that "spending" time in exercise will actually gain time.
Change your perspective by looking at a workout session as a time management technique instead of as a time drain.
Why is exercise a good time management technique?
- Provides Energy Even though it may seem counter-intuitive, exercising actually gives you more energy. When you are really dragging can be the right time for an exercise break.
- Improves Attitude Exercise increases the production and metabolism of endorphins which have an antidepressant effect, reduce anxiety, and add to your ability to cope with stress.
- Enhances Sleep You may have to rise earlier to fit in a workout but the exercise can help you sleep better the night before. Because you have more energy and are being more productive, you may also able to get to sleep earlier, so there is no "lost" hour.
- Increased Productivity The very act of setting a schedule to include needed exercise forces you to look at your overall day, trimming non-productive areas. A healthier, more energetic you means you can accomplish much more.
A doctor client of mine started referring some of her patients to me when they claimed they did not have the time to exercise, even with their weight and health issues. There really is no such thing as lack of time. It is simply a question of where your priorities lie. In my work with them, we set up processes to make everything in their work days run more efficiently, then looked at their overall schedule and created blocks of time for their exercise sessions without sacrificing anything else.
The key is scheduling. Book specific blocks of time within your weekly calendar for exercise. If it is not written down, chances of getting it done are slight.
There are many options that can provide the above benefits, such as:
- Exercise early when you are not hungry, already tired, or coping with family obligations.
- Add some extra stretches and stair climbing throughout the day.
- Have home equipment available. Watching the news or your favorite recorded show will add to a session�s enjoyment.
- Make it family fun. An evening walk, bicycling, weekend tennis, and games in the park can all be counted.
Determine what fits your lifestyle and current conditioning. Write those into your weekly calendar.
If you want to be a good time manager, break that cycle for a more productive and healthy you.
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