One of the most common statements that people make about exercise is, "I don't have the time". This may be true for some, but for most people it is not time they need more of, it is how they use their time that would make the difference.
The average American watches television 28 to 30 hours a week. That is almost a full time job when you think about it. Taking three to six of those hours away from T.V. and applying them to an exercise program would get you on the track to healthy body. Missing those hours in front of a television would create the time you need to become fit, feel great, and add quality to your life.
Between 1992 and 2009 the average number of medical prescriptions that Americans received went up 71%. They now say that on average each American gets approximately 12 prescriptions a year. Since the on slot of advertisements for medications, Americans use meds for virtually every physical or mental issue they might have. Good health does not come in a bottle. Good health is about taking care of your self with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and conscious positive thinking. Medications can be life saving and truly helpful when really needed, but should not be a replacement for taking care of yourself with healthy choices.
Finding the time to eat healthy food and exercise can be done creatively. It is not necessary to do it all in one chunk of time if you have time issues. No matter what your job is, you can prepare your food in advance by making it at home the night before. Choose fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, lean proteins, salads, nuts, and whole grains. This way you will not have to think about what you will eat, and you will not be tempted by unhealthy choices.
There are certain exercises that you can add in here and there during your work day. For instance, doing a set of incline push ups on the edge of your desk two to three times a day only takes minutes, yet will help to strengthen your whole upper body. Using the edge of your chair to do a couple of sets of triceps dips can be done in just minutes as well. If you are not shy, you can also lunge your way around your office to strengthen your legs and butt. Who cares if it looks different, the goal is to get your exercise in and become fit. You may even start a trend among fellow workers.
Another favorite exercise of mine is the plank. This can be done anywhere. All you need is a floor or the ground. It literally takes a couple of minutes to strengthen your core along with most of the muscles in your body. Side planks are a great addition too. Doing the plank in the morning for one to three minutes can completely change the strength and look of your body. It is a great return for your time investment.
Always take the stairs when there is an option. Park your car further from where you need to go so that you can add in more walking. Using an exercise ball against the wall to do squats is also a great way to tone and strengthen your legs in just minutes. You can also just lean against the wall with your feet out in front of you just as if you were sitting in a chair if you do not have a ball. These are stationary squats, and can give you the same results as the ball squats in just minutes. Remember that all of these exercises can be done throughout your day, and not all at once to save time.
Getting your cardiovascular exercise in will require you to find at least thirty minutes in one chunk of time. Get up thirty minutes earlier and take a wonderful morning walk. Drop that time from television or computer time and do a bike ride, run, or walk. This time can be found if you are truly interested in a healthier body. You will feel so much better, and as a bonus you will look great too.
We can always find the time if we really want to. Saying that we have no time is really just a way of finding an excuse to not exercise. If you can prepare your food in advance, add your strength exercises in here and there, and then find thirty minutes to get your heart rate up in your aerobic zone, you will have achieved your exercise and health goals. It is not that hard to do, it just takes a little bit of planning. Your reward for your effort will be ten times what you have given.
We all have 168 hours to our week. Giving three to six of those hours to the health of your body and quality of your life does not seem to be asking much for what you get out of it. You will be more productive, healthier, feel great, and look your absolute best by this small investment of time. Time is of no value if your health is gone.
Wishing You Health and Happiness,
Queenie
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