Happy Tuesday! One day closer to the weekend right ;-)
This morning I managed to knock out a really good 10-mile run. I am loving getting the long runs done during the week. Jason started off with me for about 3.5 miles then I met up with Amy. The weather was fairly pleasant, definitely getting used to this unseasonably cool weather we're having.
I also got in 6 solo miles yesterday morning. And while I wasn't just jumping out of bed ready to go, I know that it's a great way to start the day and to ensure that I get my workout done.
People often question how I fit in all of my workouts. It's not always easy. I don't have any more extra time than anyone else. Granted, I don't have children, but it's not like I sit around idle. I work full time and am also now working a second job as a fitness trainer. I still have to maintain the house (or attempt to do so), usually I make dinner, and at some point catch up with my husband.
So, how do I fit it in? Sometimes I don't. Sometimes life does get in the way. For example, I had planned on biceps, triceps, abs before meeting with a client AFTER working all day. I had forgotten about a late meeting, so that meant no weight workout. But, I always have a plan B, C and even D for when I can't get in a workout when I thought I could.
Knowing I have a backup keeps me from stressing out about it too much. It keeps me sane too. Sometimes flexibility is key. Like knowing it's ok to switch up your rest days or going with a totally different workout for sanity's sake. I mean really, there are some days when you just don't have the energy to get in the planned weights but an easy run works out mentally.
I thought I might share a few tips and/or tricks for getting in your workouts. Honestly, what it really starts to come down to is that it becomes part of your routine, just like going to work is part of your routine or going to class, or whatever. It's just part of the day.
How to fit in your workouts:
1. Schedule It - Make it part of your calendar for the day just as you would a doctor's appointment, a haircut or picking up the kids.
2. Split it Up - I don't think 2-a-days are ideal to do each and every day. I think you'll burn out. But, sometimes they are necessary, especially if you're planning on doing both cardio and weights. Get in a short cardio session in the morning then schedule a short weight workout at lunch or after work. 30 minutes each session. Remember, you don't have to do both!
3. Have a Plan - Know what workouts you are planning for the week. Have your weights already written out. This keeps you on track, but also makes you more efficient with your workouts - especially with weights.
4. Have a Backup Plan - Know that if you can't get in that run on Monday as planned, you have another day you can get it done. Same for weights or any workout you're doing. Have a backup. It might rain so you can't ride outside, have a plan. Your gym may end up being closed or too crowded. Have a plan.
5. Enlist a Buddy - Scheduling a workout with your spouse or friend is a great way to ensure you get it done. Plus, having a friend can be motivating and more fun.
6. Get it Done Early - I know, I know, waking up is not easy. But, getting your workout done first thing in the morning makes it less likely that something will come up and cause you to miss the workout.
7. Know Your Focus - If you know you have a crazy, hectic week, know what your fitness focus is. Know your limits and don't try to cram it all in. Are you training for a race? Are you more focussed on your weights? Maybe you're gearing up for a big bike ride. This can also go along with #3.
How do you manage to fit in your workouts? Do you make contention plans for workouts in case they are missed or maybe if you're traveling?
This morning I managed to knock out a really good 10-mile run. I am loving getting the long runs done during the week. Jason started off with me for about 3.5 miles then I met up with Amy. The weather was fairly pleasant, definitely getting used to this unseasonably cool weather we're having.
I also got in 6 solo miles yesterday morning. And while I wasn't just jumping out of bed ready to go, I know that it's a great way to start the day and to ensure that I get my workout done.
People often question how I fit in all of my workouts. It's not always easy. I don't have any more extra time than anyone else. Granted, I don't have children, but it's not like I sit around idle. I work full time and am also now working a second job as a fitness trainer. I still have to maintain the house (or attempt to do so), usually I make dinner, and at some point catch up with my husband.
So, how do I fit it in? Sometimes I don't. Sometimes life does get in the way. For example, I had planned on biceps, triceps, abs before meeting with a client AFTER working all day. I had forgotten about a late meeting, so that meant no weight workout. But, I always have a plan B, C and even D for when I can't get in a workout when I thought I could.
Knowing I have a backup keeps me from stressing out about it too much. It keeps me sane too. Sometimes flexibility is key. Like knowing it's ok to switch up your rest days or going with a totally different workout for sanity's sake. I mean really, there are some days when you just don't have the energy to get in the planned weights but an easy run works out mentally.
I thought I might share a few tips and/or tricks for getting in your workouts. Honestly, what it really starts to come down to is that it becomes part of your routine, just like going to work is part of your routine or going to class, or whatever. It's just part of the day.
How to fit in your workouts:
1. Schedule It - Make it part of your calendar for the day just as you would a doctor's appointment, a haircut or picking up the kids.
2. Split it Up - I don't think 2-a-days are ideal to do each and every day. I think you'll burn out. But, sometimes they are necessary, especially if you're planning on doing both cardio and weights. Get in a short cardio session in the morning then schedule a short weight workout at lunch or after work. 30 minutes each session. Remember, you don't have to do both!
3. Have a Plan - Know what workouts you are planning for the week. Have your weights already written out. This keeps you on track, but also makes you more efficient with your workouts - especially with weights.
4. Have a Backup Plan - Know that if you can't get in that run on Monday as planned, you have another day you can get it done. Same for weights or any workout you're doing. Have a backup. It might rain so you can't ride outside, have a plan. Your gym may end up being closed or too crowded. Have a plan.
5. Enlist a Buddy - Scheduling a workout with your spouse or friend is a great way to ensure you get it done. Plus, having a friend can be motivating and more fun.
6. Get it Done Early - I know, I know, waking up is not easy. But, getting your workout done first thing in the morning makes it less likely that something will come up and cause you to miss the workout.
7. Know Your Focus - If you know you have a crazy, hectic week, know what your fitness focus is. Know your limits and don't try to cram it all in. Are you training for a race? Are you more focussed on your weights? Maybe you're gearing up for a big bike ride. This can also go along with #3.
How do you manage to fit in your workouts? Do you make contention plans for workouts in case they are missed or maybe if you're traveling?
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