“Man, I wish I could get in shape, but I just don’t have the time.”

Wow, I’ve heard this one a million times.  Most folks have a vague understanding of the fact that living a more active, healthier lifestyle will add years to your time here on earth, and yet, they watch each day go by, wishing more and doing less.  Many seem to equate getting in shape with spending long hours on a treadmill or stair stepper, rearranging their entire schedule so that they can make it to the gym, only to spend more time waiting around for equipment than they do actually working out, feeling uncomfortable around other members, and finally going home without feeling like much was accomplished.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Exercising as little as 10, 20, or 30 minutes a day can make drastic changes in your fitness level, and vastly improve your health.  That’s right, not hours at the gym, but just a few minutes in your living room, bedroom, or garage each can get you into shape.

Something for you to try:

Let’s keep it simple.  Find a space in your home that will allow you to exercise without knocking over your favorite lamp, and you’re ready to go.  I use a simple kitchen timer for my workouts…chances are that you have one sticking to your refrigerator right now.  Set it for 20 seconds, lace up your workout shoes, and get to work!

Pushups                        20 seconds
REST                           (10 seconds or so)
Bodyweight Squats       20 seconds
REST                           (10 seconds)

Perform this circuit 5-10 times.  Total time spent:  10-20 minutes.

And there you have it.

This is, by no means, a comprehensive training plan.  However, it is a straightforward, simple way to get your body moving, and put yourself on the right track.  This short workout plan is more than most average folks exercise in an entire week.  If you simply can’t carve the time out of your busy day, then set your alarm clock a bit earlier.

If you can’t make the time to get in shape now, then you will most likely have to make time for illness and injury later.  It’s your choice. 

A thought…

I had just come from a lacrosse game (I play on a men’s club team), and was chatting with one of my family members.  It went like this:

“How old are you, Whit?”
“I’m 38.”
“Wow…still playing lacrosse at 38.  That’s amazing.”

My question is…why is that amazing?  Shouldn’t being active and vital be a part of your life…all your life?  It’s your choice.  If you want to get healthier and more fit, then you can.  If you need help and guidance, you’re not alone.  Find a workout buddy, a coach, a teacher, a place where you can start your journey to better health and fitness, and take it one step at a time.