Why Exercise Often Gets Pushed Aside
We all know exercise is good for us but that doesn’t always mean it makes it into our routine. Between work, family, errands and other responsibilities it’s easy to push physical activity down the to-do list.
For many people the biggest barrier isn’t ability it’s time, motivation or simply feeling like there are more urgent things to do. But here’s the truth: prioritising exercise doesn’t mean making huge changes or finding hours each day. It just means treating movement as an essential part of your week, not an optional extra.
The Benefits of Making Exercise a Priority
When you make time for regular movement the rewards go far beyond fitness. You’ll likely notice:
More energy throughout the day
Improved sleep quality
Better focus and mental clarity
Reduced stress and anxiety
Stronger muscles and bones
Lower risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes
Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. Even small amounts (like a 20-minute walk or a short stretching session) can offer real health benefits when done regularly.
Make It Part of Your Schedule
One of the most effective ways to prioritise exercise is to treat it like any other appointment. Instead of waiting until you “find time” plan it into your calendar ahead of time. Whether it’s a gym session, a walk with a friend or a home workout schedule it the same way you would a meeting or dentist visit.
If mornings are too rushed try fitting in movement during lunch breaks or after work. The best time to exercise is the time you’ll actually do it.
Set Realistic, Enjoyable Goals
You’re more likely to stick to something that feels achievable and enjoyable. You don’t need to aim for an hour at the gym five days a week. Start with what feels manageable such as two or three sessions of 20–30 minutes. This will still make a difference.
Choose activities you enjoy whether it’s swimming, dancing, walking, yoga or cycling. If you’re not sure what you like yet experiment until you find something that feels good. Movement should never feel like punishment.
Don’t Wait for Motivation
Motivation can come and go but habits are what keep you going. The key is to build momentum by showing up, even when you’re not feeling 100%. The hardest part is getting started. Once you begin it feels better than you expected.
Try setting a rule like: “Just do five minutes.” Once you’ve started you might feel like continuing. But even if you stop after five minutes you’ve still moved your body and that counts.
Make It Easier to Say Yes
Set yourself up for success by removing barriers. Lay out your workout clothes the night before. Keep a yoga mat in the lounge. Save a short online workout to your favourites. The fewer steps between you and your movement the more likely you are to follow through.
Accountability can also help. Exercising with a friend or joining a class can make you more likely to show up and more likely to enjoy it too.
Progress Over Perfection
Some weeks will go to plan, others won’t. That’s okay! Life happens. What matters most is getting back on track and not giving up just because things didn’t go perfectly. If you miss a session, don’t stress. Just refocus and keep moving forward. Building a habit of regular movement is about consistency, not perfection.
Making Time for Yourself Pays Off
When you prioritise exercise you’re not just ticking off a fitness box you’re investing in your health, your mood, your energy and your ability to show up fully in life. Movement helps you feel better physically and mentally and the time you spend doing it often gives you back more than you think.
Start small, stay consistent and remember that making time for movement isn’t selfish, it’s a form of self-care that makes everything else feel more manageable.