Work It!

Sneakers? Check. Sweatpants? Check. Beat-up t-shirt and hair tie? Check, check. We all have that checklist that makes us say “Ugh!” For some people, it’s for the grocery store. For others the hardware store. For most parents, anything related to the first day of school hits hard. I personally dislike the list for the gym. Now don't get me wrong—I don't hate gyms or the idea of fitness. No, I just hate that I never have time for it. Let’s get real: By the time we leave work or finish with the kids or even manage to make it through rush hour traffic unscathed, we're either exhausted or planning dinner and off to bed.

Time management for most people is pretty tricky, but gym management for all of us is ridiculous. So how can we manage to stay active, keep our figures and maintain our busy day-to-day lives? Simple! Keep reading and I'll be sure to point you in the right direction.

Early Bird Gets the Worm.

Most of us plan to hit the gym right after work or after we run a few errands on the weekend, but the reality is if we wait, we allow more opportunity for other things to pop up that get in the way of our getting to the gym. Always remember, the early bird gets the worm—or, in this case, the early bird gets the workout. Think of your workout like an airplane flight. Morning takeoffs have a slimmer chance of delay. Try setting an alarm one hour before your normally wake and use this time for a good, solid workout. Nothing too intensive—keep it light. Once you build a routine, you'll be able to determine what works best for you. Not only will you get your workout, you'll also get a jump start on the day. Did I mention you'll also feel a lot more refreshed?

Partner up!

Workouts can seem like a chore already, but having a friend to exercise with makes the task less daunting. Here's a tip: Find a partner who will hold you accountable and whom you also can hold accountable. Adding this aspect to your relationship will not only keep your waist trimmed, but also give friendship bonding time.

Take advantage of breaks.

Most jobs offer employees safe spaces to comfortably eat lunch, make personal phone calls or even lactate. Use those safe spaces and break times to get active. You'll be surprised how great you feel after a 10-minute meditation (mental workout) or even a few quick sets of jumping jacks. Or opt to use the stairs versus the elevator. Minor shortcuts like this can really get your blood pumping and pull in the waist.

Check out the kids corner

Finding a good place to work out is key when it comes to losing those inches, but finding a place that can keep an eye on the kiddos while you get that workout is essential. Find a good gym with a kiddy corner. Their staff will watch the children while you get your well-needed workout. If your kids are old enough, you can even add a twist to their day by working out with them at home. If your kids like soccer, for example, kick the ball around with them before or even after practice. Winner picks dinner, loser washes the dishes.

Make your home your gym.

Not everyone wants to or can afford fancy gym equipment, so improvise. Using things like candles as weights can really shape those arms. Squats during your favorite episode of the Bachelor will ensure you keep it tight and that you can know who was sent home.

Take it from me, losing those inches while keeping your schedule doesn't have to be scary. Just take these tips and run with them.

Jessica Samuel is a Kansas City writer who will make time to visit the gym this month.