Exercise is one of the best ways to alleviate stress, but one of the biggest challenges for working professionals is carving out the time. Everyone knows it is important to stay in shape, but work and family obligations always seem to get in the way. What the busy executive often fails to see is that everything and everyone suffers when he or she neglects his or her health.

In a perfect world everyone could commit a one- to two-hour time slot in the middle of their day to dedicate to healthy activities, but with all the responsibilities and time constraints of a busy life exercise is rarely seen as a priority. The good news is that new studies indicate it isn’t necessary to dedicate an hour or two at a set time of day to realize the benefits of exercise. And it isn’t necessary to head to the gym to get a workout.

Everyone has a few minutes of downtime each day. Five or 10 minutes here and there throughout the day are fairly easy to find. Contrary to what most people think, it is not necessary to exercise in one continuous block of time. As little as 20 minutes spread throughout the day can produce results. If you have a few minutes before the next meeting or lunch, do 15 or 20 push-ups or sit-ups. These are examples of exercise that can be performed at home, in the office, or in a hotel room when traveling. No equipment necessary.

Find ways to be creative about activities. Park away from the building and walk, use the stairs instead of the elevator, do a few toe touches and jumping jacks. Sitting doesn’t have to mean relaxing. There are several exercises that can be performed in a chair to strengthen and tone the upper and lower body and core muscles. A quick Internet search will provide details of chair exercises.
A body in motion is a good start toward being healthier and looking better, so don’t sit if you can stand and don’t stand if you can walk. Beginning today, set some reasonable goals and get moving.