Written by Cybill Vargas

September 7, 2023

Finding the time to exercise is challenging. We are so busy with our families and work. Some of us are taking care of aging parents. While others are raising children. Finding time to fit in exercise seems impossible. Below are different ways that can motivate you to exercise and possibly become an habit.

*Have fun. Engage in a variety of activities such as taking a walk around your neighborhood with your headphones in, listening to a mindful walking mediation, joining a local aerobics class and/or dance class in your community.

*Do something different. Engage in a variety of activities. Work different muscle groups. Use dumbbells, kettlebell, jump rope, medicine ball and/or a resistance band.

*Get others involved. Take a walk with friends, neighbors or a parent. It will keep you committed and you will be helping others exercise.

*Plan a weekend activity where you will be moving such as hiking, taking a walk around the shopping center or the mall or enjoy the day at the beach with a healthy meal.

*Take your dog out for a walk. Your dog will love it and both of you will get the exercise you need.

*Volunteer at an animal shelter and take a shelter dog out for a walk. You will make the dog happy and you will feel good about helping out an animal.

*Speaking of volunteering, find activities in your city or in a surrounding city where you can volunteer. Activities such as working in a food bank, volunteering as a sports coach, helping at a community center or in a senior center. Not only will others be grateful, you will feel amazing .

*Make a daily list of the things you need to do and include exercising on this list. Put it in your calendar. You will be surprised how this will help you to stay on track.

*Download a few walking, aerobic or strength training videos. When you are ready to exercise, the downloads will be readily available on your phone or computer.

*Buy a set of dumbbells. Have them in close proximity so it’s easy to pick them up and use them. Side note, make sure you are using them correctly.

*Have your workout clothing and exercise items set out the night before if you plan on exercising in the mornings.

Finally, just start. It does not matter what you are doing as long as you are moving your body. According to the CDC, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults between the ages of 18-64 get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity and at least activities that strengthen your muscles twice a week. If you can’t work out for 30 minutes at one time, do it in intervals. Take breaks throughout your day. Walk on your lunch breaks or if you are at home, use your resistance band in between making dinner and washing dishes.

What form of exercise will you commit to doing this week?