'Start small, stay consistent': No one can be too busy to stay fit

MANILA, Philippines -- When things get too much at work or at school, it may be easy to set fitness aside.

Sitting in front of a computer screen for long hours will drain just about anyone. Add to that, sitting in a car while being stuck in traffic, or standing in front of a long line for commute – it will really be easy to not exercise anymore as you will be dead-tired when you get home.

According to the Mayo Clinic, sitting too much could be too harmful, as it is linked to obesity, as well as increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

But, how can busy people remain fit? Is it possible?

Paulo Gonzales, general manager of All Out Fitness, thinks so.

Gonzales, who owns the Las Pinas-based functional fitness gym, said that one “does not need to overhaul your life” to be healthy.

“You just need to start small and stay consistent,” he told Philstar.com in an Instagram exchange.

He said that exercise could be as little as 10 to 15 minutes a day, a portion of a 24-hour period.

“Try short workouts while watching TV or during breaks,” he said.

Walking more, even for a few minutes, will also work wonders. Gonzales said that “even pacing around your house adds up.”

Aside from keeping active, other changes in the lifestyle are also important.

While it may be refreshing, sugary drinks are not that healthy. Instead, staying hydrated is the way to go.

Cleaner food will also be more beneficial in one’s journey to being healthier.

“Make better food swaps: go for grilled instead of fried, or water instead of soda. And, avoid fast food as much as possible,” he said.

Getting sufficient sleep is likewise very important. As much as possible, getting seven to eight hours of shuteye will be very helpful moving forward.

“And most importantly, don’t pressure yourself to be perfect. Just aim to be a little bit better every day,” he said.

“One percent better everyday is progress.”

With these tips, we can be healthier despite how hectic our schedules may be.