Here are six simple ways you can make time for exercise, no matter how busy your life is.


1. Work out efficiently

Pick a workout that you can do almost anywhere. Ideally, this will be a form of exercise that doesn’t require much preparation (maybe save the windsurfing for the weekend).

To make the most of your limited time, it’s a good idea to opt for workouts that offer significant gains in a short time. Here are some top-notch options:

  • CrossFit
  • Tabata training
  • interval running
  • quick ab routine
  • weighted jump rope
  • bodyweight workouts
  • resistance band workouts
  • high intensity interval training (HIIT)

If you’re looking for a good bang for your workout buck, HIIT might be your best bet.

In addition to increasing overall strength, interval training workouts like HIIT have been found to increase aerobic endurance and oxygen uptake. That basically means it helps increase your body’s ability to take in oxygen and deliver it to your tissues.

2. Do what you like

Flexing your self-discipline muscles is often necessary when it comes to exercise. But TBH, there’s no point in doing something you hate. If you can’t stand running, don’t run! You’re much more likely to stick to a workout routine if you actually like it.

Make things easier on yourself by choosing a form of exercise that fits your lifestyle, personality, and taste. Not sure what you love to do? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different forms of exercise until you find what works best for you.

Remember, you don’t have to do an activity you hate.

3. Keep it competitive

Gym class dodgeball was lit. Keep that spark alive by adding friendly competition to your workouts.

Research suggests that competition can be a major motivator. According to a 2022 study, competitions that provide rewards can make exercise more interesting and fun. There’s also a chance it can inspire you to stick to your workout routines.

Whether you’re elite, beginner, or somewhere in between, there’s something for everyone. You might want to try:

  • fun runs
  • cycling events
  • CrossFit competitions
  • powerlifting competitions
  • long-distance running events
  • 1:1 competition with a workout buddy
  • competitions at your local gym or fitness studio

Sign up, set a goal, and go for it! It might be just the push you need to stay in the workout game.

Pro tip: If you want to compete a bit with your friends and fam, you can download a fitness app that lets you keep track of each other’s stats.

4. Add it to your calendar

You might be more keen on exercising if you prioritize it as much as the other things in your life. If you unexpectedly had to pick up your kiddo from school and had no backup plan, how would you deal with the situation? Cancel a meeting? Take some work home with you?

The truth is that when we really need to, we get out of the office at the time that is necessary. So, make a schedule and stick to it. You deserve some you time.

5. Keep track of your activity

There’s an old saying that goes, “If you don’t measure it, it doesn’t exist.” While it’s a slight exaggeration, this phrase does have some truth to it, especially when it comes to exercise.

So take notes in your calendar every time you work out. Then add up your workout sessions at the end of each week, month, and year so you can monitor your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Measuring your activity levels (and, ideally, keeping notes on your progress) can help you stay on track and realize when you’re slipping before you’ve completely lost the habit.

Pro tip: If you’re not a fan of old-school note-taking, download a fitness app!

6. Choose something over nothing

You don’t need an hour — or even 30 minutes — to get an effective workout.

Some exercise is virtually always better than none. When done frequently enough as part of an effective program, short and speedy workouts can do wonders for both your body and your mind. Heck, even 7 minutes can make a difference!