by Cyndi Li

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: January 13, 2009

Got too much on your agenda and not enough time to complete it? Welcome to the twenty-first century. You're not alone. Because there are never enough hours in the day to tend to all your obligations, the non-essential activities usually get put on the back burner and eventually forgotten. If you've been putting off working out so you can tend to other obligations, try these quick workouts you can fit right into your daily schedule.

The main objective with any exercise program is to increase your heart rate. Doing so will turn burn off more calories. Keep that in mind as you go about your day, and look for opportunities to increase your heart rate. Here are a few.

LUNGES AND SQUATS

You don't have to bang out any horrendous number of them. Just enough each time so you feel it in your muscles. Fit them in on a trip to the bathroom, on your lunch break, when you wake up in the morning, or just before bed. (My neighbors have even caught me lunging to the mailbox on occasion rather than walking. I don't mind the stares.)

ClIMB STAIRS

That stairwell at work serves as more than just an emergency exit. Do some stair climbing on your lunch break or come to work a little earlier. Use the stairwell at home while the kids are napping. You'd be surprised at how quickly your heart rate will increases in just a matter of minutes when you climb up and down stairs, and it's an easy and affective way to burn some calories.

WALK

It goes without saying that walking is good for your body. If you put a little oomph into it your heart rate will increase and burn some calories too. Walk on your lunch break. Put the little one it the stroller and walk to the post office. Walk where ever you find the opportunity and pick up the pace to get the old ticker pumping a bit faster.

TOE LIFTS

These are good for people that find themselves sitting for long periods of time; whether at a desk or in front of an automated machine. Lift your heels up until your legs are supported by only your toes. Hold for a few seconds, and lower. Repeat. Take your shoes off when possible. You'll work all the muscles in your lower leg without leaving your desk. (And your boss won't even know! SHHHH!)

BUTT CRUNCHES

Tighten your butt muscles, hold for 5 seconds and release. Fit them in while you're showering in the morning, while you're standing at the sink washing dishes or on the floor while your watching television.

Maintaining your daily exercise program is important for good health and fitness. There no need to forfeit it in order to fit something else on your agenda. With a little ingenuity and discipline you can continue getting that daily dose of exercise, and still have enough time to tend to life's chores.

Learn more about this author, Cyndi Li.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.