When You Just Can’t Get to the Gym

There will be days where you can’t manage to get to the gym for your regular workout.  Lives are busy and stuff happens so don’t let it stress you when this happens.  Missing the odd workout isn’t going to derail your goals but don’t let it become a habit.  If you can’t get to the gym for a while and you’re too busy to fit a full workout into your day then try and fit in exercise snacks throughout the day.

There are benefits of doing shorter workouts when you can’t fit in your normal programme so don’t rule it out on those non-gym days.

Keep Up Your Metabolism

When you do multiple workouts instead of one longer one, you can help keep up your metabolism throughout the day at a steadier rate. You may notice that your metabolism is raised for a short period of time after you finish a workout. As your day goes on, if you don’t have much other activity, it starts to decrease again. By doing multiple, mini workouts at different times of the day, you can keep your metabolism elevated for more of your day.

Less Time Commitment

Many people don’t have time for an hour or longer workout but can fit in short bursts of 10-15 minute workouts throughout the day. Maybe you have time for a quick morning yoga session, a short resistance training session in the afternoon, and a walk in the evening. You are still getting an hour or so of a workout in, just not all at the same time.

Maintain Even Energy Levels

You might also notice that your energy levels remain steady throughout the day when you are getting up often to move your body. Similar to your metabolism, you might get a boost of natural energy shortly after a workout, especially one with a little cardio. Imagine having this not once but 2-3 times during the day.

More Chances for NEAT

You can also improve your NEAT, or non-exercise activity thermogenesis which accounts for between 15% and 30% of your total calories burned throughout the day. You get NEAT with any type of movement during the day, including chores around the house, typing for your job, fidgeting, taking a shower, and so much more. So when you add these mini-workouts you’re increasing your NEAT even more.

So don’t let life derail your fitness goals.  You just have to adapt the path you take to get there.