Master the Mini-Workout

Sometimes it just feels like there is no time to go to the gym. You shouldn’t let that stop you from staying committed to your fitness routine, because even with less than an hour to spare you can master a mini-workout.

Focus on H.I.I.T or high intensity interval training. Instead of spending an hour slogging away at a moderate pace on the treadmill, run at a faster pace for a shorter amount of time and cycle through intervals of brief cool down. Focus on more explosive moves like jumping rope and climbing stairs rather than moderately paced machines like the elliptical.

Squeeze in a strength training session using supersets (repetitions with brief rest in between sets) and multi-joint movements. Try combining barbell squats with an overhead or military press or kettle bell lunges with bicep curls to cut your workout time in half.

Even if you can’t make it to the gym, pop in a fitness DVD or find a short routine on YouTube and workout wherever you are.

No matter how pressed you are for time, be sure to take time to stretch—warm ups and cool downs are essential to any fitness routine and can help prevent injury.