It can often feel difficult to find time and energy to exercise around all your other daily commitments after cancer. Especially as the pace of 'normal life' starts to pick up in recovery, when your schedule is fills up with going back to work, family obligations, and various other appointments and commitments.
However, incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is essential for maintaining good health and overall wellbeing after cancer. It is a non-negotiable appointment you should make with yourself as many days of the week as your possibly can.
Here are some practical tips on how to fit exercise into a busy schedule and prioritise keeping your body and mind healthy.
Plan Ahead: One of the keys to successfully fitting exercise into a busy schedule is planning in advance. Look at your weekly calendar and identify available time slots for physical activity. Treat these time slots as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. By scheduling exercise just like you would any other important task, you are more likely to make it a priority and follow through.
Optimise Your Mornings: Starting your day with exercise sets a positive tone and ensures that you prioritise your fitness goals before other distractions arise. Wake up a bit earlier to fit in a workout. It could be a quick jog, yoga session, or even a home workout from the on-demand library. Not only will this boost your energy and productivity throughout the day, but it also clears your mind and reduces stress levels.
Lunch Break Workouts: Make the most of your lunch break by incorporating some physical activity. Consider going for a brisk walk, using a quick recorded home workout, or joining one of our virtual fitness classes. By utilising this hour of the day, you can rejuvenate your mind, increase productivity, and get your body moving.
Break It Into Shorter Sessions: You don't need to block off a full hour for exercise if your schedule doesn't allow it. Instead, aim for shorter bursts of activity throughout the day. Take short breaks every hour to stretch, do bodyweight exercises, or take a brisk walk around the office. Even ten minutes of physical activity multiple times a day can have a positive impact on your fitness levels and overall health. Our on-demand library has a growing number of 20 minute workouts to do quickly at home.
Multitask Mindfully: While it's important to be fully present during workouts, there are certain activities that can be combined with exercise. For instance, you can listen to audiobooks, language lessons, or podcasts while running on a treadmill or cycling. Incorporating these activities during exercise not only helps you stay engaged but also maximises your time efficiency.
Involve Family and Friends: Exercise becomes more enjoyable and easier to fit in when you involve your family and friends. Schedule activities like walks, bike rides, or group fitness classes that allow you to engage in physical activity while spending quality time with loved ones. This way, you can combine socialising and exercise into one productive session.
Embrace Technology: In today's digital age, we have access to fitness apps like Get Me Back, online workouts through our on-demand library, and home exercise equipment. Take advantage of technology to personalise your workout routine and eliminate the need for commuting.
While a busy schedule may seem like a barrier to exercise, it's crucial to find ways to prioritise physical activity for your overall wellbeing after cancer. By planning ahead, optimising your mornings, taking advantage of lunch breaks, breaking exercise into shorter sessions, multitasking mindfully, involving loved ones, and embracing technology, you can fit exercise seamlessly into your daily routine and achieve your fitness goals. Remember, consistency and determination will help you embark on a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
