exercise
People should, in general, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. Image Credit: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich

We’re already in the second month of 2023, so it’s time to reassess our New Year’s weight loss resolution – how’s it working out for you?

Click start to play today’s Spell It, where we figure out how to work out despite a ‘hectic’ schedule.

Finding time to exercise if often easier said than done. There are never enough hours in the day to work, catch up with family, connect with friends, develop a hobby and get a good night’s sleep… let alone work out. But according to US-based health care centre Mayo Clinic, people should, in general, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. And if we want to lose weight, maintain weight loss or meet specific fitness goals, we would need to exercise more.

So, let’s make time for this important activity. Here are a few ways to sneak in a workout, in your busy schedule:

1. Set an early alarm

Start the day strong by making your workout the first thing you cross off on your daily to-do list. This is achievable if you adjust your sleep schedule, by sleeping earlier and waking up earlier than usual. Here’s a pro-tip – wear athleisure to bed, so that as soon as you’re awake, you can start working out, rather than going through the process of changing your clothes.

2. Add a workout in your commute to work

Park a little further away from your office than you usually do so you get in a 15-minute walk to and from it. Or, if the weather is pleasant enough, pack your workout clothes and change into them the minute you’re done with work. Then jog to your car or run a few laps around the building before heading home.

3. Add exercises at work or in your home office

It’s possible to get your daily dose of exercise without even stepping foot outside the office. If your workplace permits, sit on a stability ball to strengthen your core, and keep dumbbells under your desk. Use them in your break to squeeze in 12 to 15 repetitions (two or three sets) of dumbbell curls, overhead presses or ab crunches!

4. Bring your kids along

If you’ve got young ones who keep you busy, let them come along with you on your run. Invest in a jogging stroller so you can get your steps in, without having to pay for a nanny to watch your child for that duration. Or, strap your baby into a baby carrier and do squats for extra resistance!

5. Multitask on the treadmill or bike

If you have a report to read or a presentation to look over, do it while exercising. Hop onto the treadmill or stationary bike and knock off your other tasks at the same time.

Do you have any more tips to make time for exercise in busy days? Play today’s Spell It and let us know at games@gulfnews.com.