In an ideal world we’d all manage to leave work on time and hit the gym, or go for a jog before heading home. But we always end up staying late at the office. And, if we do leave on time, we have to dash off to cook, shop or pick up the kids.

Something always gets in the way of that precious time we’d so love to dedicate to getting ourselves into shape. Having said that, fitting a workout into any day is possible - and here’s how! 

Set realistic goals

The very first step to building any form of workout routine is to set bite-size goals that you will be able to realistically achieve. Don’t start off by aiming to run an hour a day if that’s not what you’re used to. Your body will give in and your morale will collapse. Instead, start with short brisk walks and build on that.

Join a gym close by

If you’re the type of person who likes exercising in a gym, increase the odds of turning up for your workouts by joining a fitness club close to work or close to home. That way, getting to the gym won’t be as much of a hassle.

Wake up a bit earlier

Sunrise SUP Yoga ❤ #happyyogi #supyogamellieha #maltasunrise #feedthesoul

A post shared by SUP Yoga Mellieha (@supyogamellieha) on Sep 21, 2017 at 11:47pm PDT

Easier said than done, true. But once you get over the initial trauma of getting out of bed in the early hours of the day, you’ll be fine. By simply setting your alarm clock half an hour earlier, a couple of days a week, you’ll be able to fit in 20 minutes of exercise - be it a brisk walk, a jog around the block or a much-needed yoga session. 

Make your daily commute count 

Get moving, and shake it off! Walk or cycle it to the office if it’s not too far away from home. You might not be able to do this in the rain, or the sweltering summer heat. But don’t let this stop you from doing it when the weather conditions are more favourable. In simple terms, it’s better to choose something over nothing.

Get moving at home

There’s so much you can do on just your living room floor; yoga, pilates, planking - the list goes on. If you need motivation, join a workout website that will guide you through regular excise routines a few minutes a day. You can also exercise while doing stuff around the house, or unleash the teenager within and dance around to your favourite music.

Use your lunch break 

🕉🎃👣👻Day 3 of #spookyyogaposes is lizard! 🦎I have found a new love for chair yoga these days but I am also thankful for this yoga challenge. It's inspired me to begin including lunges, folds etc into my work practice. On second thought maybe I don't need cube mates....🤷‍♀️🤔KIDDING, Still praying they fill these desks up....😭 #officeyoga #yogaeverydamnday #yogisofig #yogachallenge

A post shared by Daniele Parisi (@daniele_parisi) on Oct 19, 2017 at 4:44am PDT

Make your lunch break super productive by signing up to a class or going for a walk. Alternatively, get together with like-minded colleagues and organise yoga or mini-exercise sessions at the office. Apart from enjoying the physical benefits of the workout, you’ll also be distressing and increasing your overall wellbeing. Just ensure you allow time for…you know…lunch. 

Take your kids with you 

When it comes to children and working out, it’s a half-empty-half-full situation. Some people use having children as an excuse not to exercise when, really and truly, they can be the best motivation…and (potentially) a great piece of equipment. Just putting it out there, babies and toddlers can make great weights to do squats with. As they grow up, you can then take them with you for a walk, run or cycle. 

Have fun and get moving. Always try to find some time in your week to fit in any sort of exercise. How about motivating yourself with some new trendy sportswear? Now get out there and show the world that you mean business!

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