5 Ways To Sneak In A Quick And Meaningful Workout

Guest post by JMP Member Samantha Hosenkamp

Busy workdays shouldn't mean sacrificing your health

Are you in a constant state of "I'll start working out tomorrow?" Do you feel like there aren't enough hours in the day? Fitting in a workout can be challenging, but it's certainly not impossible. These five easy tips can make you feel healthier, happier and more energetic throughout the day:

Take a stand against sitting

Did you know that sitting can increase your risk of an early death? The Harvard Health blog explained that prolonged sitting (desk jobs during which you sit 6-8 hours a day) can shorten the lifespan of even those people who workout regularly.

Try standing when taking phone calls, opting for a standing desk or setting a timer to get up every hour and stretch.

Break it up

If you can't get a full 30 minute workout in during the morning or evening, try breaking your daily workout into 10 minute increments. Wake up and do sets of pushups, squats, lunges and planks for ten minutes. Take a ten minute walk during your lunch break. Do ten minutes of yoga after work while watching TV. Time flies when you're having fun (exercising)!

Buddy up

It's easy to skip workouts when you're the only one who's accountable for your behavior. Find a friend who loves to do a workout you love. Set a reasonable goal--three workouts together per week--and stick to it. Perhaps you decide to run together in the morning and then have a quick cup of coffee together. An evening hike with a buddy is always a nice way to end the day. 

Get inspired

Feeling unenthused about your workout? Go to your favorite social media website (Facebook, Instagram) and find inspirational accounts to follow. Accounts that post awe-inspiring running pictures or motivational quotes might help prep your brain for your workout. I like to look at them first thing before a run to get motivated. 

Find your play

Famed runner and philosopher Dr. George Sheehan encourages people to find their play in his book 'On Running.' Your play is that state of sheer joy you experience when doing something you love. Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Find something that makes you happy. Something that excites you. Be it running, a Zumba class, yoga, a walk with a friend--whatever it is, let it be in the spirit of play and 'workout' will have an entirely new, fun connotation.