by Leslie Conner

Created on: January 30, 2009   Last Updated: February 13, 2009

You know that you need to incorporate exercise into your life. But, with all your responsibilities, how could you possibly get the recommended thirty minutes of exercise a day? How can you make a lifestyle change when there is absolutely no wiggle room in your schedule (or your pants)? I'll tell you how: by sneaking in a few minutes of physical activity into what you already do during the day.

As with anything else, you can't jump from zero to one hundred in one day. Gradual changes are the best, especially if you can't remember the last time you did anything remotely resembling exercise. And, if you are experiencing any health problems right now, it is wise to consult a physician before starting anything that could be too strenuous. But, the beauty of this regimen is that you get the same health benefits of a prolonged exercise session without having to "work out" for hours.

Here are some tips (with links to helpful sites!):

1. Stretching is important (and often overlooked). First thing in the morning, to wake up, do some sun salutation stretches. This only takes five minutes of your time, and is a great introduction to the benefits of yoga poses. This will increase flexibility and circulation and get your day started with energy.

2. Walk everywhere you go. The recommendation is 10,000 steps in a day. If you have a pedometer, you can measure how many steps or how much mileage you cover. You can probably get at least half of the recommended amount by just going about your regular business. If you go to work in an office where you are sitting all day, take the long way around the office to get to the bathroom. If you need to communicate with a co-worker, walk to their offices instead of sending an email. Make sure when you do this that you are walking at a brisk pace. If you can take the stairs, do it. Also park as far away from your office entrance as you can. If you think about all the chances you have during an eight hour work day, you can really rack up some distance. You can also use some of your lunch hour on a nice day for walking outside. And, if you can get some co-workers to join you, it will be even more fun!

3. Get a dog. There is no better personal trainer than a dog. You have to walk them every day and twice a day is even better for your well-being and your dog's. If you walk for thirty minutes in the morning and thirty minutes in the evening, that's an hour of exercise and bonding time with your pet. And, if you don't have or want a dog, just grab your Ipod and go for a walk anyway.

4. Get a resistance band. This little jewel is invaluable for the people who hate lifting weights. This Total Body Resistance Workout shows some wonderful exercises that would only take about ten minutes to do.

5. When you get home at night, try this 10 Minute Cardio Blast. As you get into better shape, you can start adding hand weights or your resistance band to this routine to get some strength training. Here is another site that has 10 Minute Cardio workouts and strength training suggestions: Time-saver Workouts.

That's it. You've gotten quality exercise, but you didn't have to carve out hours of your already cram-packed life to do it. This is also a much cheaper and feasible alternative to a gym membership. Everything you need is right in your home. And, doing your workout in five or ten minute increments also gives you motivation to stick with it.

Exercise is vital for the health and funtioning of your body. Take a little bit of time each day to dedicate to your well-being. It's definitely worth it.

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