7 ways to make exercise a daily priority

Finding time for physical exercise can be a daily struggle when we are juggling work and life commitments. Diabetes NSW & ACT recommended several ways in which you can make exercise your daily priority.

Including physical activity into our day can be a struggle for many of us. Work or other commitments may take up a large portion of our time, and at the end of the day it's hard to generate the energy or motivation required for exercise.

There are, however, some simple ways to ensure physical activity remains a daily priority.

1. Make exercise an appointment

Put it in your calendar. Just like you would with a doctor's appointment, schedule exercise into your diary and if something comes up respond with "sorry I have an appointment then". After all, you exercise to ensure good health, just like you visit your doctor as part of looking after your health, so why treat these "appointments" any differently?

2. Exercise in the morning

Start your day by releasing endorphins. By going to an early gym class or on a morning walk, you're ensuring you've accomplished your daily exercise before the other daily demands start to take up your time and energy. 

3. Cater to your own likes and dislikes

Make sure you enjoy exercising! It's easy to find excuses to NOT do something we don't like doing; so find something you do like and that fits with your lifestyle, personality and taste. When it comes to exercise we are spoilt for choice. So don't be afraid to experiment with different activities until you find the perfect exercise schedule that is achievable and enjoyable.

4. Make it social

Incorporate active get-togethers into social catch-ups, or invite a friend or family member to exercise with you. Take a dance class together, ride your bikes to the park, or take a walk along the beach. You'll keep your fitness routine from going stale, hold each other accountable and discover ways to build regular exercise into your relationships.

5. Boost activity throughout the day

Think about opportunities throughout the day where you can boost your activity levels. Walk instead of driving short distances; park further away or get off a bus stop or two before your destination; take the stairs rather than the elevator; or do strength exercises during the ad breaks.

6. Work out efficiently

Choose a workout you can do anywhere, with little preparation or equipment needed. You want to accomplish as much as possible in as short a time as possible. Body weight exercises and interval style sessions are efficient exercise choices that don't require much preparation or space - so there's no excuses!

7. Set a goal, track your progress and reward yourself

Setting a goal is key to keeping your exercise routine on track. For example, competing in the City2Surf will motivate you to stay on track and add purpose to every workout. Once you have set your goal, put an exercise plan in place that will build the fitness and stamina the event requires. Don't forget to reward yourself for achieving your goal. A weekend getaway is the perfect way to do so!