"I just don't have the time to workout!" Almost all of us have said this before so don't feel guilty, you're not alone. When life is so busy (which whose isn't these days?!?) that's typically what we'll say and then ditch the workout.
TIME is our most precious resource--we need to use it wisely!
It's not what we say that's a priority, but what we actually DO that's a priority!
Don't put everything else first then skip what is important, set your priorities and analyze where your precious time is going. Your priorities, whether you say so or not, are where YOU choose to spend those hours. YOU need to make the most of YOUR time! When we minimize the things that really are not that important, we can make more room for those that are important! So if you say "I want to workout, I just do not have the time" that tells me that exercising isn't your priority. Here's a little homework: for a few days journal your "time" by writing down how much is spent on the computer, in front of the television, surfing the internet, reading a magazine, shopping, etc. I bet you'll be very surprised at how you spend some of your 'valuable' time!
How to overcome the "I don't have the time to workout" obstacle? You don't need to spend a LOT of time actually exercising to get (or stay) fit. Instead, find "pockets" of time each day. According to Michelle Cleere, PhD., a psychologist in Oakland who specializes in sports performance "Too many people think that unless they go to the gym 7 days a week for an hour a day, they're not doing anything....that's not the case".
You need a PLAN and make every minute count! I suggest you try working in "intervals". Often referred to in the fitness industry as HIIT training (or High Intensity Interval Training). Studies have shown that shorter workouts can be just as effective as longer ones if they include intervals, followed by short periods of recovery. Therefore you are working harder in less time!
If you're not up to a high intensity type workout then try using the machines. "The most effective calorie burners are machines that require you to move the majority of your weight yourself" says Pete McCall, an exercise psychologist with the American Council on Exercise. An example: if you're on the treadmill, get it up to a challenging incline (try 5% -- or higher if that's too easy) vs. a flat walk or riding a stationary bike.
When time is really difficult to wedge in here are some other basic suggestions (I've mentioned these before but worth repeating): take the stairs vs. the elevator, park your car further down in the lot and not close to the front doors, grab your pal and walk around the neighborhood vs. talking on the phone--you need to work in your workout!
This is your valuable time you're using so be sure to use it wisely! As I tell the folks that attend my group fitness classes "this may be the only time you actually give to yourself today (you're YOU time) so really make it count!"
And remember: it's for your health, body, mind & spirit---so really, what better use of your precious time?!
