Everyone knows that one of the hardest things about trying to get fit is finding the time!

Raising kids, grocery shopping, working, cooking, and trying to fit in gym-time isn’t easy; but I always say that “you’ll find time for things that matter to you!”

For this reason, I’ve collected a few tips that I have for becoming more active in the midst of the crazy “grown up” life.

1. Make family time active!

The next day you set aside for the family, rather than going to your favorite restaurant, grab your tennis shoes and go for a walk. Perhaps play a game of basketball with the kids, or have a fun dance-off with the little ones. There’s no better way to encourage healthy habits than to be healthy together!

2. Make workouts more effective, not longer.

There’s no need to spend two hours in the gym each day. As a matter of fact, it’s possible to get all the benefits in just thirty minutes! High intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of my favorite workout methods for clients with busy schedules. Choose 6-7 exercises and complete them at your maximum intensity for 30 seconds, followed by a 30 second rest. After getting through the whole circuit, repeat 3-4 times. In a matter of half-an-hour, you’ll get a great sweat in: and we all have time for a 30 minute workout!

3. Try new fruits and vegetables.

Have fun picking out your next dinner, and bring the family along! Have everyone pick out a new veggie to include in the dish and choose a new seasoning or herb to add some flavor. Tasting new foods and getting creative is a great way to expand the nutritional value of dinner, and have some fun!

4. Walk more.

In between meetings, during your lunch break, or even adding an evening stroll to the day is a sure way to assist in your fitness journey. I always tell my clients that have trouble finding time for cardio to get off the subway a stop early or to avoid the bus for a day. These extra steps sure do add up!

Each time you make a healthy decision, it’s a step in the right direction. We aren’t perfect, and there isn’t loads of time in the day; but each little “win” counts and your body will thank you. Commit to becoming healthy as a family and start exploring new ways to become more active and add nutritional value to your meals.

By Paytra Gessler, Certified Youth Fitness Trainer, Certified ISSA Fitness Professional

For more great tips or to find out more about our services, contact Bonita@EnergeticJuniors.com, or call 212-879-1566. Also check out our website at www.energeticjuniors.com