Finesse Tips for When Life Gets Hectic

"Consistency is key."

This is our number one rule to staying active and healthy. 

We live in a society where being busy is sometimes seen as a badge of honor. Life moves fast, and our responsibilities are overflowing. So, finding time for those workouts can take a back seat.  

From job changes and big moves to frustrations with seeing lack of results, we’ve run the gamut on finding ways to accommodate a gym into a packed schedule. Check out our tips below on how to ensure you are still making a fitness-focused lifestyle a priority, even when life throws a few curveballs in the way.

Cover Photo: During a work trip to SoCal, CaCera found a little free time and went for her first paddle boat experience!

Above: A recent work trip to Indianapolis bought these gorgeous views from the city's Canal Walk trail during an early morning run

1. When you can’t seem to find the time to make it to the gym: Write it out. Keeping a fitness journal has become a habit for both of us. One of our first tasks on a Monday morning is to write out what our focus is for the week. We jot down our personal and professional obligations and then plot classes, personal training appointments and gym time. Having a written view allows our gym time to be a scheduled part of the day like everything else. Plotting it alongside other responsibilities enable us to see how much time we have to spend, and where we can be flexible. For instance, if there is an after work event on Wednesday, we may opt for an earlier morning workout, or go for that tougher weight session on Tuesday.
2. When you are traveling: Let’s be honest, no one looks forward to the hotel gym. So make a fun workout part of your experience. Whether the trip is for work or leisure, we often book classes at studios not available to us at home. Try to find local gems that have a unique atmosphere. Scout for gyms that are in walk-able areas, so you see a little more of the city along the way. 
3. When you are burn out: Switch it up! A fit life does not have to be a monotonous one, or a chore. Just like we need a change of scenery or a break for a burst of energy, the same goes for the gym. Go take that “Trap Tuesday” cycling class, book an aerial fitness workout, or even a spin on the pole. Stepping away from your routine can help you realize what muscle groups you may not be hitting, and could lead to a new hobby. 
4. When time is limited: Give shorter, efficient workouts a try. Not every session needs to, be a 60-minute commitment. Go for a 25- to 30-minute Tabata or HIIT session. Focus on quick bursts of movement with short rests, fast sprints on a track, or supersets where you switch between two exercises that work complementary muscle groups. Check out the workout we posted last week for a great start! 
5. When life has changed: We have a lot of friends that are getting married, having gorgeous little ones, or  taking care of aging parents. These life changes can throw off a routine, but why not start a new blueprint within these situations? Bring the whole family along for a fit-venture by taking long walks together in a nearby park on Sunday evenings, start CrossFit with your significant other, or find a fitness studio that has childcare. 
6. When you are starting for the first time: Start with the basics. Dedicate yourself to two or three workouts per week. Focus on cardio and bodyweight exercises. Hit the treadmill or stair climber, followed by basic movements like squats, lunges, and pushups. 

#FinesseTip: If you are competitive like us, turn health and wellness into a game. Set a goal with your girls before your annual girl’s trip, invite a few friends to a FitBit challenge, or see who in your family can come up with the most creative and tasty, healthy meals each week.