Time is usually the most popular excuse for failing to work out! No doubt all of us have used the tired excuse of, 'but I am too busy'! Are you really so busy that you can't fit in fitness? If you frequently use time as the excuse for not exercising, then here are some ways to see if you really are too busy.

Your Use of Time

Be honest and totally objective when completing the following Top 10 list of the things that are the most important to you. Think in terms of your overall life and what you love the most.

List 1: Top 10 Things In My Life

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2. _________________________________________________
3. _________________________________________________
4. _________________________________________________
5. _________________________________________________
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7. _________________________________________________
8. _________________________________________________
9. _________________________________________________
10. _________________________________________________

Now list the top 10 ways that you currently spend your time

List 2: The Top 10 Ways I Use My Time

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2. _________________________________________________
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5. _________________________________________________
6. _________________________________________________
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8. _________________________________________________
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10. _________________________________________________

Take a look at List 2. From that list and your experience, note any activities that waste 10 minutes of your time a day, such as waiting in store lines, holding on the phone, being stuck in traffic, watching TV etc. Beside each entry, state how much time gets spent, and add up an average daily total.

List 3 - Time I Waste Daily

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2. _________________________________________________
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8. _________________________________________________
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10. _________________________________________________

Total Time Wasted Each Day (hours/minutes):__________

Ways of Clocking On and Increasing Time for Fitness

Compare List 1 with List 2. Do you devote the majority of your time to what means the most to you? On the other hand, do you find yourself using precious time on items that really don't mean that much? If your two lists do not enhance each other, it is time do get your priorities straight.

Now look at List 3. The purpose of this exercise is twofold. First, its shows that we all waste time. No one can be expected to be on the go all the time without a moment of rest. However, the truth is, there is time available for health and fitness. Motivation is the key and what is probably lacking in many of us!

Second, this list shows that planning your time more wisely can free up times in other parts of the day. If you find yourself holding on the telephone a lot, use that time to pay bills or make a grocery list. Save time to clock in some fun and fitness and devote time to exercise.

The important question is: How much do you value yourself? If you waste the day so that there is no time for you then you are causing yourself stress and not focusing on what is important. The body and mind need exercise and rest to stay fit and healthy. Take a look at your daily calendar and use of time to find a way to clock in your fitness to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.