busy, busy...dreadfully busy

So, I think I've made it clear that I love running. But, like anything else in life that we enjoy doing, let's face it...we don't always have time for it. I have very much been at that place lately.

In fact, since vacation a few weeks ago, I have been working crazy hours (as I mentioned in a recent blog post titled "back to the future"). Even when I haven't been working, I've been busy or tied up with other responsibilities. This has significantly impeded my running time (and as you may have noticed, my writing time as well). I hate when I don't get to run as often as I would like. In reality, our body can handle a couple of busy weeks without missing a beat, but it can be mentally tough on me.

The more I thought about how busy I've been and how little running I've done, it occurred to me that I can't be the only one who faces this battle. In fact, lack of time is probably the top reason people don't exercise as often as they should. So, I thought I'd share my little trick that usually gets me through. This is a big help both mentally and physically. And, I must confess, the reason I probably feel so miserable right now is because I haven't been doing a good job of taking my own (following) advice the last couple weeks. Still, this may be just what you're in need.

On days when you know you'll be running low on time to go for a run, try to work in these simple weights-free leg exercises (you can do them all at once or sporadically throughout your day). As when doing leg workouts with weights or running hard runs, please use caution to stretch before and after and make your run the next day an easy one. Below are some of my favorite exercises.

*NOTE: This is not an article on the technical aspect of each exercise. For proper technique, please consult a professional trainer or use online videos at your own discretion.*

1. Wall-sits
2. Lunges (I really enjoy half-full lunges)
3. Jump squats (if you're not in a practical place to jump, simple squats will do)
4. Leg raise dead lifts
5. Calf extensions (toes forward, toes pointed in and toes pointed out)

I usually do 3 sets of 12-20 reps depending on the exercise, time and how I'm feeling. For wall-sits, you can either do sets or just burn-out. Regardless, each exercise can be completed in a matter of a couple of minutes. This makes this a perfect alternative for the days when you're just so busy, busy...dreadfully busy...