This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Ottawa chapter.
Eat. Sleep. School. Repeat. This can feel like the life of a collegiette during the busy periods, and at some point between rushing to class and making dinner you think, I should start exercising again. By the time you get home, though, all you can say is…
So instead you promise yourself that you’ll start as soon as you finish midterms. But the assignments keep piling on and even though midterms have come and gone, you find yourself wondering, who’s got the time?!
Well no more excuses! Here are 15 tips to help you make time to exercise:
1. Cut out unnecessary screen time. Do you find yourself checking Facebook even though you’re busy? Instead of endlessly scrolling, set a time limit and stick to it. Use this extra time to be productive and cross some tasks off of your to-do list so that you can free up time to exercise later, or use the time to exercise now. Another compromise is to workout while you watch.
2. Plan ahead. If you’re a morning workout person, take everything out the night before or sleep in your workout clothes. Do you exercise when you get home? Lay everything out before you leave in the morning. Having things ready when you DO have time will motivate you to workout out when you’re busy because you’ve already started the process and having everything laid out gives you a physical reminder.
3. Keep it simple. You don’t always have to go to the gym or yoga class to get your exercise in. During the really busy times, try at home workouts to cut out the commute time. You can also go for a quick run in your area or search up exercises on the Internet. Click here for more information on where to find free at home workouts (I personally recommend Blogilates).
4. Socialize on the move. Instead of grabbing coffee with a friend, suggest a bike ride or a fitness class. This way you don’t have to choose between hanging out with friends and working out when you have free time.
5. Ditch your ride. Turn your commute into a workout by walking or biking if you live close enough. You can now spend the time you would have spent in traffic working out without getting too sweaty on the way.
6. Take the stairs instead of opting for the elevator. Another great way to fit in some exercise without getting sweaty at school or work.
7. Avoid the gym during peak hours. Going to the gym during times when it’s less busy will cut out time waiting for equipment and shorten your time at the gym.
8. Use fitness apps to use your workout time effectively.
9. Work more productively. Maybe you don’t have time because you’re not putting in quality hours of studying or working. Do you tend to multitask while you work? If so, then try focusing on one task at a time and eliminating distractions.
10. Track your schedule. Take a few days to track how you spend your time. This might help you realize that you have more downtime than you think, or pinpoint what you might be spending too much time on.
11. Say no! If you’re reading this list and you still think you don’t have time to workout, then chances are you have too much on your plate. Learn to say no sometimes. How can you expect to accomplish everything if you’re not in good health?
Remember, not all of these tips will work for everyone. Find a routine that works for you and train hard!
Resources
GIF credits: