*Collaborative post.

Between a full-time job, family duties, and a social life, it can seem impossible to fit exercise into the mix. Yet, some of the busiest people still make time to work out on a regular basis. While it may not be easy to work out with a busy schedule, it can be achieved. Here are nine ways you can incorporate exercise into your life, even with a busy schedule.

1.   Make a plan

Writing down a fitness plan can help you be efficient while working out, minimizing time spent in the gym while maximizing results. Use a calendar to mark down the days you want to work out. Then, using a notebook or the notes app on your phone, write down an organized workout routine, complete with the number of sets and reps you’ll be performing. This can help you stay organized and exercise on your terms.

2.   Get a workout partner

Many of us have trouble motivating ourselves in the gym. It can be easy to cheat a little bit or fall victim to self-deception—you might end up saying things like, “I don’t need to do that final set” or “I’m too tired to run that last lap”. A workout partner can help hold you accountable, plus having someone there with you can make exercising a more enjoyable experience.

3.   Keep a change of clothes on hand

Always keep some workout clothing on hand in case you need it. If you have a busy schedule, you may never know when you can fit in a run, a trip to the gym, or a quick workout session. Get a duffel bag and stuff it with a lightweight shirt, shorts, underwear, socks, a gym towel, and a pair of training shoes for women or men. Then you’ll always be ready to go whenever the opportunity arises.

4.   Change up your commute

If possible, ditch driving your car and find more active ways to commute to work. Ride your bike or walk to work if you can. Or, if the office is far enough away that you have to drive, try cycling and walking when you’re out running errands instead.

5.   Plan active family adventures

Get the whole family active by combining family time with exercise time. Plan a camping trip, take the family hiking, or play in the backyard with your kids. When making plans with the family, try to be creative about fun ways you can all get active.

6.   Make your workouts fun

If you hate working out, you’re most likely going to skip it whenever it’s convenient. This is especially true if you’re trying to fit exercise into a busy schedule. That’s why you should try to work out in a way that you actually enjoy. Join a recreational sports league, take kickboxing classes, go surfing, or take part in any physical activity that you know you’ll look forward to.

7.   Always choose the stairs

By skipping the escalators and elevators and opting for the stairs, you can get more steps in every day. While this may not be a traditional “workout”, you can think of it as a series of mini-workouts. Taking the stairs can be a great way for a busy person to burn calories without hitting the gym.

8.   Get an early start

Many people choose to exercise first thing in the morning. Why is this? First of all, working out in the morning can give you an energy boost that starts your day off on the right foot. Secondly, it feels great to get your exercise for the day over with in the morning. This makes it so that you can enjoy the rest of the day without a looming workout hanging over your head.

9.   Make fitness a priority

This may seem like an obvious tip, but it’s more important than you think. If you want to get in shape, you have to make fitness a priority in your life. Carve out time for exercise and be consistent. As a busy person, regularly working out may require you to make some sacrifices, but that’s the cost of being in great shape.

With a hectic schedule, it may seem impossible to fit exercise into your life. However, with some effort and determination, you can accomplish your fitness goals. Try out one or all of these tips to start living a more active life.