Making time to workout when life gets busy

Ryan Loyd • August 26, 2025

Schedules are busy. I get it. But you do need time for you.

Working out isn't a luxury. It's a neccessity.

As summer fades and school gears back into full swing, schedules get busier, to-do lists grow longer, and it can feel like there’s just not enough time in the day—especially for exercise. Between early morning classes, extracurriculars, homework, and maybe even a part-time job, working out often gets pushed to the bottom of the priority list. But maintaining physical activity during the school year is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for your mental and physical health.

Regular exercise helps improve focus, boosts mood, reduces stress, and supports better sleep—all essential for academic success and emotional balance. It’s not just about staying in shape; it’s about functioning at your best. When your body is active, your brain works better, too. Even short bursts of movement can enhance your concentration and energy levels, making it easier to get through long school days and heavy study sessions.

So how do you actually make time for fitness when your schedule is already packed? The key is to be intentional. Start by taking a realistic look at your weekly calendar. Identify small pockets of time—maybe 20-30 minutes—between classes, before dinner, or right after waking up. You don’t need an hour at the gym every day. A quick bodyweight workout, a jog around the block, or even a YouTube yoga session can make a difference. Planning your workouts like appointments makes it more likely you’ll stick to them.

people run in the street during a marathon

Signing up for an event like a marathon—or even a 5K or fun run—can be a powerful motivator to stay consistent with your workouts. Having a specific goal and a set date creates a sense of accountability and purpose that casual exercising often lacks. It shifts your mindset from “I should work out” to “I need to train,” which makes it easier to prioritize fitness even when life gets busy. The excitement of preparing for the event, tracking your progress, and imagining the finish line gives your workouts meaning beyond the gym. Plus, the sense of accomplishment when you cross that finish line—whether you run, jog, or walk—is incredibly rewarding and can inspire you to keep setting and reaching new goals.

Multi-task.

Another effective strategy is to combine social and fitness time. Instead of catching up with friends on the phone or over snacks, suggest a walk together or attend a group fitness class. If you're in college or high school, take advantage of campus rec centers or join a club sport. Not only will this help you stay active, but it also keeps you socially connected—a double win during stressful school periods.

Early mornings can also be a golden opportunity for movement. While waking up earlier may sound unappealing at first, starting your day with exercise can boost your energy and set a productive tone for everything that follows. Plus, morning workouts are less likely to be interrupted by unexpected events later in the day. Start small—even ten minutes of stretching or core work can begin the habit.

The most powerful part of sticking to an exercise routine is that it builds momentum. The more consistent you are, the easier it becomes to fit fitness into your day without overthinking it. Your brain starts to associate movement with energy and focus. What once felt like a chore becomes something you actually want to do. Over time, these small choices shape a lifestyle that supports long-term health and success.

As school life ramps up, remember that making time for exercise is an investment in yourself. Start small, stay consistent, and allow your routine to evolve. Eventually, being active won’t be something you try to squeeze in—it’ll be a natural part of your day.

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