How to Stay Active When You Have a Busy Schedule

With long work hours, family commitments, and never ending to do lists, finding time for exercise can feel impossible. But staying active is crucial for mental clarity, productivity, and overall wellbeing. Even with a busy schedule, incorporating movement into your day is possible, you just need the right approach.
At JSM Fitness, I help clients in St Albans, Harpenden, and online stay active no matter how packed their schedules are. Here’s how you can make exercise a priority, even when time is limited.
1. Prioritise and Schedule Your Workouts
If something is important, you make time for it. The same applies to exercise. Schedule workouts like meetings and appointments to ensure they happen.
Block out time in your calendar for workouts.
Set reminders to stay on track.
Treat exercise as a non negotiable part of your day.
JSM Fitness Tip: Many of my clients find that having a structured training plan helps them stay committed.
2. Make Workouts Convenient
When life gets busy, convenience is key. If getting to the gym is too time-consuming, find alternatives that fit your lifestyle.
Home Workouts: Use bodyweight exercises or resistance bands.
Outdoor Workouts: Train in a nearby park.
Online Training: Follow a structured program from anywhere.
JSM Fitness Tip: I offer mobile personal training, bringing workouts to you for added convenience.
3. Early Morning Workouts
Starting your day with a workout ensures you get it done before distractions take over. Morning exercise can also boost energy, improve focus, and set a positive tone for the day.
Wake up 30/45 minutes earlier for a quick session.
Do bodyweight exercises, yoga, or a short cardio workout.
Prepare your workout clothes the night before to make mornings easier.
4. Lunch Hour Workouts
If mornings are too hectic, use your lunch break for a quick workout. Even 20/30 minutes of exercise can boost your metabolism and improve productivity.
Go for a brisk walk or run
Do a HIIT session for a full body workout in less time.
Join a gym near work for a quick strength session.
5. Evening Workouts
If early mornings aren’t for you, train after work. Exercise is a great way to unwind and clear your mind after a long day.
Go straight to the gym after work, avoid stopping at home first.
Join a fitness class to make it social and fun.
Do a short at home workout if time is tight.
6. Hire a Personal Trainer for Accountability
One of the best ways to stay committed is to work with a personal trainer. Having a coach ensures you stay consistent, get results, and don’t waste time.
Customised workout plans save time by focusing on what works best for you.
A trainer keeps you accountable and motivated.
Sessions are efficient, ensuring maximum results in minimal time.
JSM Fitness Tip: I offer one to one and online personal training for busy professionals looking to stay fit.
7. Take Advantage of Your Commute
If you’re constantly on the go, use your commute as a way to sneak in extra movement.
Walk or cycle instead of driving or taking public transport when possible.
Get off public transport one stop earlier to walk more.
Use stairs instead of lifts whenever possible.
8. Choose Efficient Workouts
When time is limited, focus on high impact workouts that deliver results quickly.
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Burns fat in shorter sessions.
Full Body Strength Training: Maximises muscle engagement.
Circuit Workouts: Keeps heart rate up while building strength.
JSM Fitness Tip: A well designed workout plan can help you achieve more in less time.
9. Get Enough Sleep & Fuel Your Body
Busy schedules often mean late nights and poor eating habits, but both can hinder performance.
Prioritise 7/9 hours of sleep to stay energised.
Eat balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs to fuel workouts.
Stay hydrated to improve focus and energy.
JSM Fitness Tip: I offer bespoke nutritional advice and how to schedule your meals.
10. Make Exercise Fun & Mix It Up
Sticking to the same routine can make workouts feel boring. Keep things exciting and sustainable by adding variety.
Try different workout styles to stay engaged.
Join group training or a fitness class for motivation.
Train outdoors to change the environment and boost mood.
Final Thoughts: Stay Active No Matter How Busy You Are
No matter how packed your schedule is, there’s always a way to stay active. Whether it’s early morning workouts, lunchtime sessions, personal training, or short high intensity workouts, the key is to make fitness a priority and commit to it.
If you need help structuring your workouts, staying accountable, or maximising results, JSM Fitness offers personal training in St Albans, Harpenden, and online to fit your busy lifestyle.
Start Training with JSM Fitness Today!
Personalised Workouts for Busy Schedules
One to One, Online & Mobile Personal Training
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Email: [email protected]
Call or WhatsApp: 07590 830263
JSM Fitness: Serving St Albans, Harpenden & Surrounding Areas in Hertfordshire
Boost Your Fitness, Let’s Work Together!
Book Your First Personal Training Session Today!
Email: [email protected]
Call or WhatsApp: 07590 830263
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