One of the top excuses for not exercising is lack of time. Who can blame you though? Many of us work forty hours (or more) per week.
Then there’s the morning rush to get the kids to school and lunches prepared. Therefore, many of us have to squeeze in a sweat session before work or over lunch.
In an effort to make the most of the time you have available to train, and ensure you get to work on time, these tips will help you get back to the office sooner.
#1. Prep your gym bag
It’s much better to take the time to organise your gym bag beforehand, than to waste valuable minutes frantically searching for specific items.
Try to find a bag with compartments and pockets. That way you can use different sections for your hair dryer and brushes and another section for toiletries.
Also, fold up a laundry bag and place it inside your gym bag, that way you can easily toss your sweaty clothes into it when you hit the showers.
READ MORE | 4 Essentials To Pack For Gym
#2. Shorten your workout time
Longer workouts are not necessarily better for you. In fact, studies show that working out at a higher intensity for a shorter period can lead to more fat loss while still maintaining muscle.
Try high intensity interval training (H.I.I.T) which requires you to alternate between low and high intensity with little rest between sets.
You can also consider gym classes. Group training can be lots of fun. The classes last for 30 – 45 minutes, and sometimes as little as 24. These shorter classes feature cardio and strength and are designed to provide everything you need in a workout, especially if you’re short on time.
READ MORE | 4½ Ways A HIIT Workout Benefits You Long After You’ve Left The Studio
#3. Use an in-shower moisturiser
These lotions are a must for your gym bag, enabling you to moisturise your skin in the shower to save time. All you need to do is wash, apply, rinse, and go.
There’s no need to apply normal lotion thereafter. You don’t even have to leave it in – it’s activated by water so it immediately absorbs into the skin.
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#4. Use 2-in-1 face wash or cleansing wipes
Ideally, a good and basic facial routine includes cleansing, toning, and moisturising. Leave that for your pre-bedtime regimen. In this instance you’re short on time so opt for a 2-in-1 cleanser and toner or simply wipe your face with a cleansing sheet.
#5. Stock up on dry shampoo
These cans of wonder may become the busy girl’s best friend. If you don’t have time to wash your hair, no problem – simply use dry shampoo. The oil-absorbing substances will clean your hair without water. It will also leave your locks smelling fresh. For a similar and cost-effective option, use baby powder.
#6. Only wash the front of your hair
The line to the shower can often be as long as the one for the treadmill. You, therefore, have to use your shower time wisely.
It may be a little unusual but washing only the front of your hair or just your bangs can save you time. It will give the illusion that you have freshly washed your entire head of hair.
#7. Rock a multi-purpose hairstyle
On the subject of hair, add styles such as braided up-dos and high buns to your repertoire. They are perfect for gym as they translate easily into the office environment.
Also, there’s no need to wash, blow dry and flat iron your hair afterwards. The best part is that when you loosen the braids, you’re left with effortless waves.
READ MORE | Don’t Let Your Hair Go Thirsty!
#8. Stick to the basics
A shower takes about 3 minutes, hair takes 10 minutes, and getting dressed a further 3 minutes, give or take. That leaves about 5 minutes to do your makeup.
This means sticking to the basics of eyeliner, foundation, blush, and lipstick or gloss. You could also try using a primer as it can lessen or eliminate the need for foundation.
READ MORE | Look After Your Skin This Holiday Season
#9. Pack your post-workout snack or shake
Now that you have saved time on every other aspect of your post gym routine, don’t throw it all away by standing in a line at the health bar.
Rather pack in your post-workout fruit, snack, or shake. That way you can just pull it out of your bag and munch it on the way to work. With all the time you’ve saved in the shower, you’ll be in your office in no time.
Written by Robyn Frost
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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