In our busy lives, something has to give, and often that something is exercise. But we all know that for our physical and mental health, we must squeeze a workout into our days. We asked Living Well readers how to fit in fitness, and you were positively inspirational!

Strength in numbers

Many readers say involving a buddy or a group keeps up the commitment level – and the enjoyment!

"I signed up for a Ladies' Fitness Boot Camp! It was four weeks long, three days each week, and it makes me stay active knowing I have 15 other ladies who are also going to show up! I have pushed myself further than I thought I could go, and at the end of every session the feeling of accomplishment makes me feel proud!" —Tara S.

"About six years ago, some of my friends and I decided to start a walking group. The walk was more enjoyable. We six call ourselves the Walkie-Talkies. Three times a week, we walk about 5 km after work. During the winter months we go to the town hall and exercise two nights a week and the third we do our 5 km of walking. If it was not for my wonderful ladies, I would always find excuses." —Jean P.

"I finally joined the gym at the local rec centre and I work exercise around my family's schedule. I always arrange to meet up with friends so that I am obligated to go whether I'm in the mood for it or not. I always feel better afterwards!" —Isa H.

Make it fun

If you like it, you're more apt to do it.

"Sometimes it is a challenge to keep a fitness routine when you have two kids and a full-time job. In order to motivate myself to work out, I need it to be fun. Since I love music and I love to dance, I decided to join a line dancing class at least two nights of the week. You get a nice workout and it is never the same routine and I get to meet some new friends! Now I cannot wait for workout night." —Christine C.

"Get a dog, they need lots of exercise, of course you are the one to provide the walks! Nothing inspires me more than my dog jumping with excitement when he sees me grab his leash. Or, plant a big veggie garden. The rewards are not just keeping fit, but also the taste of the fresh produce is excellent and nutritious." —Valerie L.B.

Rise and shine

Put exercise first – first thing in the morning, that is.

"I found it hard to fit exercise into my day and I have a lot of TV DVD box sets that I never have time to watch. So I started a routine of getting up at 5:00 a.m. while my husband and children are still asleep. I watch one of my shows while I do the Bally stepper with hand dumbbells. It gives me a good 45-minute workout and I get to see my favorite TV shows." —Wendy M.

"My husband and I play nine holes of golf before work (walking of course). We get to the golf course by 6:00 a.m. so we have enough time to play, shower in the locker room and eat before driving to work. We also try to play the other nine after work on days when we have no other commitments." —Loretta C.

"I get up early and go to the YMCA to swim for an hour before getting ready for work. Feels great, wakes me up, and I get on with my day knowing I did something good for me first." —Karen H.

Park your car

Get fit on the way to wherever you're going.

"I ride my bike to and from work. It takes the same time as driving and by the time I get home, the stress is gone from the day." —Corinna T.W.

"I make exercise a regular part of my everyday living. I live in a rural area where the post office is three miles from my home. So I cycle three times a week to pick up my mail. I live in a beach area, so I walk the beach and swim a couple times a week. When I go to the mall for shopping, I park in the far corner and walk to the entrance. It seems to work for me: I'm 58 years old and still weigh about the same as I did in my 30s." —Charlene B.

No excuses

"I make sure that I schedule my workouts – they are just like any other appointment and I commit to going. I also always have my gym bag in the car so I never have the excuse that I don't have my things with me when it's time for my workout." —Zaida M.

"I'm lucky enough to have a gym next to where I work, so I've decided to take advantage of it! I work out every lunch hour. I don't have to schedule around it because it's an obligatory break. This keeps me from overeating at noon and splits my day in two, then I'm at my best to keep working. The trick is to make it a habit, same as eating because it's dinnertime. I may be 43 but I have the fitness level of a 20 year old." —Ginette T.

Can-do attitude

"I am 64 years old, I teach fitness and all kinds of dance. I believe that anyone can fit fitness into their lives, regardless of any aches or pains we may have. Usually they are there from not getting enough exercise. If you are watching one hour a day of TV then why not do sit-ups in the ads, or stretching, or grab some dumbbells. It sure beats lying on the couch. During most ads a person can do 50 sit-ups; I know, I do them." —Kathleen B.

"I am 69 years young and I fit in three days of swimming, one and a half hours. Before I get out of bed I stretch for 15-20 minutes and after that I stretch some more and do some back exercises. Other days I try to walk for an hour, and I feel much better. In two and a half years I have gone from a size 20 bathing suit to a size 12 and all I had to spend was $75 for a swimming membership." —Noreen B.

Get help

"After trying so many times to 'diet,' I finally came to my senses and realized that diets alone just wouldn't work for me. I had to make a lifestyle change, which included exercise as well. So at 46 I joined a gym and hired a personal trainer. It's been over a year now and I love it. I work out four times a week, approximately two to three hours each time, including cardio and strength training. So for those who think 'I can't,' trust me, you can. Good luck to all." —Susan C.

Start Living Well today.
Visit www.livingwell.ca
It’s a wonderful resource designed to support you and your family in the pursuit of everyday health and well-being.
You’ll find expert advice, articles, tips, tools, special offers, and savings on your favourite health and wellness brands.

© McNeil Consumer Healthcare, division of Johnson& Johnson Inc. 2008