Finding time to go to the gym is not always possible for most people. Our condo complex has a gym which is free for residents, so budget is not an issue for me. It’s the lack of time that keeps me from going. There are simply not enough time in the day. I’m also not a fan of going to the gym either (I feel too subconscious).
Aside from walking the only exercise I do is in the comfort of my own home. I have plenty of DVDs and books, as well as things like hand weights, a hula hoop and a few other small pieces of equipment to work with.
Netflix Stream Team celebrity fitness expert, Harley Pasternak, has some great REALISTIC fitness tips for busy people. Harley works out with some of Hollywood’s busiest parents like Jennifer Hudson and Megan Fox.
Did you know that research shows that working out while watching your favorite television shows helps you to exercise for longer period of times? I totally believe that. I find that when I am watching something enjoyable (a favorite show or movie) I lose myself in what I am watching and I don’t put as much emphasis on the exercise that I dread.
I wish we had a treadmill. That is what I am hoping to afford someday. I know if we had a treadmill I could walk for miles on it while watching TV.
Netflix has plenty of great series and awesome movies to keep me entertained while I exercise. Now if only I had a treadmill. 🙂
Here are some tips from Harley Pasternak to help you get some exercise into your busy life.
1. Resist: Even the busiest mom or dad can carve out at least 5 minutes to do some resistance “sculpting” exercise. Pick one exercise
a day (i.e. lunge, squats, superman) and do 3-4 sets of 20 reps. Over time, add some weight and increase the sets.2. Walk: You shouldn’t stop moving from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed. Use an activity monitor like a Fitbit to make sure you walk at least 10,000 steps a day. Make your phone calls as you walk around the block, park your car a little further away, take the stairs, and walk to your favorite cafe in the morning (instead of brewing your own).
3. Blend: Soups and smoothies are the perfect “on the go” meals that take only seconds to prepare. They’re a great way to get all your veggies, fruits, healthy fats and lean protein in one meal.
4. Be Entertained… But Not on the Couch: I tell all my busy parents to make sure they’re moving while watching their favorite show. Whether it be “Breaking Bad” or “House of Cards,” stream your show to your phone or tablet with Netflix and you may end up working out longer and harder!
5. Sleep: One of the most common complaints I get from parents is they are exhausted! It’s so important to get at least 7 hours of sleep a
night. Parents — make sure there is no light at all in your bedroom. That means no cell phones flickering, televisions blaring or alarm clocks flashing. Studies show even the smallest amount of light can disturb your sleep patterns. Other sleep tips include avoiding caffeine after noon, wearing an eye mask and avoiding surfing the web before you fall asleep.Want more fitness inspiration? Take a peek at our list of shows to watch while you walk. The full list is available here.
*I have partnered with Netflix who provided the information/sources. The opinions expressed are my own unless otherwise noted.