Finding Time for Fitness this Fall 🍁

It's no surprise that one of the most common fitness obstacles people face is finding the time to work out. I get it– life gets busy, work piles up, and our schedules overflow.

We all know that prioritizing exercise is essential, yet it often needs to be higher on the to-do list to overcome the multitude of excuses that tend to come first.

I'm sure you've heard about exercise's incredible benefits (especially if you've been following me for a while)! From feeling better in our bodies to improving strength and flexibility, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives. The question is - how do we turn this knowledge into action? 

I've got a few simple strategies that have worked for me, and you can implement them today!

Rethink What Working Out Means to You

Our brains tend to resist what feels uncomfortable, complex, or different. To combat this, try changing your perspective about exercise. Instead of viewing it as a grueling task, consider exercise as movement. About 15-30% of our daily energy output (calories expended) comes from physical activity, whether from a planned workout routine or typical activities we perform regularly called NEAT, Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis.

Any uptick in this daily movement will burn calories and motivate you to take the next step. Try pacing the floor while talking to your long-winded girlfriend on the phone (usually I) or walking with your Mom instead of sitting for coffee. Then, schedule one day a week to play a sport or activity you genuinely enjoy that puts a smile on your face and satisfies your soul.

Walking, kayaking, dancing, hiking, biking, gardening, or even cleaning (if that's your thing) all count as movement! Incorporate these activities into your day in small increments to make exercise a seamless part of your routine. The key is gradually and enjoyably increasing your activity level rather than pushing yourself to the brink with intense workouts.

If you’re not quite ready to pick up a pickleball racquet or 20-pound dumbbell, focus on building mobility, balance, and core strength to get back in the fitness game! Of course, I have you covered with The Well Stretched Life program, so keep reading for more information (or click HERE to enroll ASAP)!

Plan Ahead

As the saying goes, "If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail." Starting your day with a few minutes of tuning in time with God and your body is a simple way to be better prepared for whatever chaos is coming in your next 24 hours. Try blocking out just five minutes at the start of your day to connect with the Lord and perform some basic stretching and strengthening moves.  As you get accustomed to this, gradually add more movement sessions during your lunch break and before bedtime. 

Making space for more activity in your daily schedule is a wonderful way to honor the body God has so beautifully designed and improve your well-being one doable dose™ at a time.  

Protect Your Promises to Yourself

 In James Clear’s book, Atomic Habits, he explains how our behaviors are a reflection of our identity and what we do is an indication of the type of person we believe we are. As Christ-followers, we claim identity as children of God with a capacity to overcome. When we commit our thoughts and actions to the Lord and keep our promises to Him and ourselves, we will see significant changes from small commitments.

There is a ripple effect that takes place when we start small and stay consistent. Each promise we keep to ourselves builds a stronger foundation of change in our lives. 

In Summary: You Can Make It Happen

Remember, you have Spirit-power (even better than willpower) to fit effective movements into your day, even on your most hectic days. That’s when it’s ultra-important to take a deep breath (from that diaphragm!), get outside for fresh air, and move your body. It's all about rethinking what fitness means to you, increasing overall movement, choosing enjoyable activities, making space for them, and following through on your commitment.

Would you like help starting a safe and effective movement plan? The Well Stretched Life is now open for Fall Enrollment, and there is no better time than NOW to feel better by the New Year. You’ll find all the details HERE, or fill out this short FORM to schedule a chat.

Now, I want to know: What's ONE promise you plan to make space for and protect this week? 

Please share it with us in the comments below! And remember, it's never too late - and you’re never too old - to start your fitness journey! 🙋‍♀️

[Image: A photo of my incredible parents in their mid-80s, staying active and pursuing what they love!]