This past semester has been quite a busy one for me. Student Government, Black Student Association, not to mention my job as Men’s Lacrosse manager and then everyday classes and homework take up a lot of my time. The key to a busy schedule for me is a planner. I write everything down, up to and including classes, when I’m going to sleep and when I’m going to eat. The one thing I’ve been struggling to fit into my schedule is when I am going to work out. I am going to be honest and say that I haven’t been to the fitness center here at school all semester, but I figure if I can’t fit in the actual fitness center into my schedule, I could at lease fit in different types of working out so that I can stay healthy.

• Take the stairs: I think this is the obvious one. Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs. It’s a form of cardio that will get your heart pumping, which in turn will get your blood flowing and will keep you energized throughout the day.
• WALK! Don’t drive! If you’re out of milk or you want to go visit a friend for a few minutes, instead of grabbing the keys to the car, put on your walking shoes and a grab a bottle of water. Walking and running burn more calories, and at the same time you’ll be getting some cardio in and taking care of your errands!
• Bring the iPod! Bringing the iPod or Mp3 player wherever you go will help get you moving while enjoying some tunes. Something upbeat would be best, since you’ll be able to add a little pep in your step while you’re at the grocery store or cleaning the house. Dancing is a great form of exercise and it’s just fun to just jam. I personally would recommend “I made it” by Kevin Rudolph and Cash Money Heroes as the track to keep on repeat.
• Keep your workout shoes with you at all times. There always will be an opportunity to workout each day. Even if it’s doing a few sit-ups in your office or walking a few laps around your office building. My mom is the dean of a small private school, and the property of the school is a circle. She tries to get out there at least twice a week and walk a few laps. Also, one of the librarians at my school keeps her yoga ball with her, and I often see her doing exercises on the ball to stay active.

I think some people see working out as a chore, but if you find ways to make it fun, it can be a blast!