Unveiling the Benefits and Challenges of Women’s Exercise Habits: Insights from an Asics Study

A recent study conducted by Asics revealed some compelling insights into the relationship between exercise and women’s well-being. According to the findings, women who exercise regularly reported feeling 52% happier, 48% more confident, 67% less stressed, and 80% less frustrated. With these significant benefits in mind, it’s evident that prioritizing exercise is crucial for overall health and happiness.

However, despite the clear advantages of regular physical activity, many women still struggle to find the time to work out. In fact, the study found that 80% of women cite lack of time as the biggest barrier to exercise. But fear not, as there are practical strategies to overcome this obstacle and incorporate exercise into even the busiest schedules.

Here are some expert tips from Peloton instructor and training specialist Ben Alldis on fitting exercise into a packed schedule without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Prioritize Your Time: Treat exercise as a non-negotiable appointment in your daily calendar. Set aside a specific time slot each day for physical activity and commit to it like any other important task.
2. Start Small and Be Consistent: Begin with manageable exercise routines and gradually increase the duration as you build the habit. Consistency is key to establishing a regular workout routine.
3. Make It Enjoyable: Choose activities that you genuinely enjoy to make exercise more appealing. Whether it’s cycling, strength training, dancing, or hiking, finding something you love will make it easier to stick with it.
4. Incorporate Physical Activity Throughout the Day: Look for opportunities to move more throughout your day, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift or going for short walks during breaks.
5. Find a Friend: Partner up with someone who shares your fitness goals for added motivation and accountability.
6. Be Flexible and Adaptable: Accept that unexpected events may disrupt your planned exercise routine and find alternative ways to stay active.
7. Set Realistic Goals: Start with achievable exercise goals and gradually challenge yourself to progress further over time.
8. Use Technology for Guidance: Fitness platforms and apps can help you stay motivated and organized, providing access to workouts, instructors, progress tracking, and motivation.
9. Combine Exercise with Other Activities: Multitask by combining exercise with activities you enjoy, such as listening to audiobooks or watching TV while working out.
10. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying hydrated, as this will provide the energy and motivation needed to prioritize exercise.

By implementing these strategies, you can overcome the time barrier and make exercise a sustainable and enjoyable part of your daily routine. Remember, every little bit of movement counts towards your overall health and well-being.