Monday Master Blog: How to fit fitness into a busy social and work life?

Busy, busy, busy and then also exercising?

Busy schedules, deadlines, family commitments and social events. By the time you catch your breath, it seems like there’s no room left for fitness. 

However, a busy life doesn’t have to be an excuse to put your health on the back burner. It’s all about smart planning, small choices and a little creativity.

Make it small and achievable
You don’t always have to spend an hour in the gym to see results. Twenty to thirty minutes of intense exercise can be enough – especially if you choose efficient workouts such as HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) or full-body strength circuits.

Plan your workouts like appointments
If you put a meeting in your calendar, you’ll be there on time. Do the same with your workouts. Think of it as an appointment with yourself – one that’s just as important as the rest. Consistency starts with planning.

Choose a time that suits your daily routine
Are you a morning person? Start your day with a short workout. More energy in the evening? Then use that time slot. It doesn’t always have to be at the same time, as long as you are someone who exercises – not just when you exercise.

Move in between
No time for a 'real' workout? Make small movement moments part of your day. Take the stairs, walk during phone calls or do 10 squats while the coffee is running. It all adds up.

Train with a purpose, but be flexible
Goals give direction, but life is unpredictable. Do you have little time or energy? Then do something small instead of nothing. That is also a gain. Consistency beats perfection.

Make it fun
Choose a form of exercise that you really enjoy. Dance, box, walk, cycle with a podcast on. If you enjoy it, it feels less like an obligation and more like me-time.

No excuses!
A busy life is no reason to put yourself last. By investing in your energy, focus and health, you can do more in your daily life. Start small, stay flexible and remember: doing something is always better than nothing. You don't have to be perfect, just be present!

And why this is also important for organizations
Not only individuals benefit from a healthy lifestyle, companies also have a vested interest in their employees being fit and vital. Fit employees have more energy, can concentrate better and are more productive. In addition, regular exercise leads to less absenteeism, fewer stress complaints and greater mental resilience.

More and more organisations understand this and invest in vitality: from sports subscriptions to exercise moments during working hours, or even your own sports space. This pays off in more job satisfaction, less absence and a stronger team spirit.

A fit employee is not only healthier, but often also more creative, decisive and resilient. Vitality in the workplace is no longer a luxury, but a smart choice. Because if you feel good about yourself, everyone will reap the benefits, you and your organization.

Peter Blommaert
General Manager Enforce International BV
peter@enforce.nl