No Time for Exercise? Here’s How to Fit It Into Your Day
Think you don’t have time to exercise? According to physical therapists, it may be time to rethink what “exercise” really means.
Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn’t require a gym membership, expensive equipment, or high-intensity workouts. At its core, exercise is simply movement—and most of us have more time for it than we think.
With cooler weather and the holiday season approaching, this is often the time of year when regular activity takes a back seat. But staying active during the fall and winter months is crucial for both physical and mental health.
The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition recommends adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. That might sound like a lot, but when you break it into small daily chunks, it’s totally doable.
Why Movement Matters—Especially Now
Aside from the long-term benefits like reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, regular movement can help reduce stress, improve focus, elevate energy levels, and even boost your mood during the darker days of the season.
If you’re struggling to find time for structured workouts, here are some practical ways to sneak exercise into your everyday life:
1. Take Mobile Meetings
Walking meetings are a great way to fit in exercise while staying productive. Whether you’re on a call or talking with a colleague, take the conversation on the move—indoors or outdoors.
2. Rethink the Stairs
Skip the elevator and take the stairs. Better yet, make stair-climbing a routine. Even a few flights during your lunch break can get your heart rate up and improve cardiovascular fitness.
3. Combine Work with Movement
Got emails or reading to catch up on? Head to the gym or hop on a stationary bike at home and multitask while walking, pedaling, or using an elliptical.
4. Make Housework a Workout
Cleaning counts as cardio! Vacuuming, scrubbing, gardening, raking leaves—these tasks can all double as workouts. Add some music and pick up the pace for an even better burn.
5. Talk to a Physical Therapist
If pain, injury, or limited mobility is keeping you from being active, a licensed physical therapist can help. At Jacobo Physical Therapy, we specialize in identifying and treating the root cause of physical limitations.
We’ll design a personalized movement plan that helps you safely and confidently add more activity to your daily life—without added stress or discomfort.
Start Moving Today
You don’t need to “find time” for exercise—you just need to use the time you already have differently. Whether it’s a few extra steps, a walk-and-talk meeting, or a more active approach to chores, movement adds up.
Need help getting started? Contact Jacobo Physical Therapy to schedule a consultation and let our team help you move better, feel better, and live healthier.ard leading a more active and healthful life.