10 Simple Fitness Strategies for Busy Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

Balancing fitness with a packed schedule can feel like a puzzle.

Especially for entrepreneurs, where every minute counts, slotting in a workout seems like a luxury. Yet, it’s essential, not just for our bodies, but for our minds too.

Let’s dive into how busy folks have creatively fit fitness into their lives, proving it’s not only possible but vital. Below, you’ll find fitness strategies for busy entrepreneurs and business owners like yourself.

Schedule Virtual Workout Meetups

I’ve found that trying to motivate workouts solely for health reasons quickly gets deprioritized when inbox demands escalate. However, having recurring virtual workout meetups populated on my calendar with friends and founder peers adds essential social accountability.

Knowing that even just one other person is expecting my participation at 7 a.m. for a livestream yoga class or Saturday hike makes it harder to justify bailing, even when I’d rather sleep in or work. And seeing their commitment through app connections keeps inspiration flowing.

Turning workouts into community commitments versus solitary endeavors finally provides the push I need to honor my own wellness. Small workout pods create bonds, not just bodily gains. The creative collaboration, chatter, and tips exchanged post-class continue fueling that feel-good momentum to do it again.

For busy founders, making self-care social might resonate most amidst the isolated intensity of entrepreneurship.

Brian Meiggs, Founder, My Millennial Guide

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Prioritize Morning Fitness

Work out in the morning. It’s easy to make excuses about not having enough time to focus on fitness, especially when you are wearing multiple hats. I have found the only way I have time to exercise is to do it before I start my client work. This way, I don’t have the flexibility to let distractions steal my time. Fitness is too important to neglect, so by making it a priority in my day, I can stay on track without shaking up my workday.

Alli Hill, Founder and Director, Fleurish Freelance

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Stick to a Strict Fitness Hour

Keeping to a strict fitness schedule of one hour is extremely helpful. By abstaining from checking your phone as soon as you wake up, you can save at least 15 minutes in the morning, which could be used to get ready to head to the gym or begin your workout. I do not believe in making excuses for missing a daily workout. If you cannot make it to the gym, there are tons of YouTube videos that can help you do a home workout that is just as effective. Fitness schedules should be as natural as making time to grab your coffee in the morning and should become a habit. It sets the tone for your day and should not be skipped.

Manar Awawdeh, Director of Marketing

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Link Fitness to Cognitive Performance

As a small-business owner, I know how difficult it is to maintain fitness, especially during the busy seasons. But reminding myself that cognitive abilities are intrinsically linked to physical prowess always gives me the extra boost of motivation I need. While my body probably won’t give out tomorrow, I have an immediate need to be alert and sharp for my daily meetings with candidates and clients, and I know the best way to accomplish this is by staying active. Skip a workout, and I see the difference immediately.

Taking a holistic approach has really helped me stay dedicated to fitness as part of my work regimen.

Rob Reeves, CEO and President, Redfish Technology

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Incorporate Fitness into Daily Activities

Business owners need several options for including fitness in their busy schedules. Rather than assuming that ‘the gym’ is the only place where a workout can occur, they need to build their day around fitness. This means taking meetings while walking on a treadmill or going for creative walks where they consider ideas for innovation and problem-solving. When you have a multi-pronged approach to fitness, you’re more likely to feel a level of accomplishment and motivation to make it a daily habit.

Jason Vaught, Director of Content, SmashBrand

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Embrace Micro-Workouts

One killer strategy is to embrace micro-workouts throughout your day. Break down your exercise routine into bite-sized chunks that you can easily squeeze into your busy schedule. It could be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, doing a quick set of bodyweight exercises in your office, or even opting for a brisk walk during your lunch break. These short bursts of activity add up, keeping you active without monopolizing your time. Consistency is the key here.

James Cunningham, Senior Coach, Total Shape

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Opt for Active Meetings

One effective strategy I do is to incorporate ‘active meetings.’ Instead of traditional sit-down meetings, I opt for walking meetings whenever possible. This not only helps me stay physically active but also boosts creativity and productivity. It’s a simple yet powerful way to maintain fitness without compromising on work commitments. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to step outside the office, get some fresh air, and rejuvenate.

Andrew Van Noy, Founder and CEO, DeepPower, Inc.

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Short Breaks and Efficiency for the Win

As a busy CEO and fitness expert, I’ve developed effective ways to maintain my fitness amidst a hectic schedule:

Efficient Workouts: I incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or circuit training into my routine. These quick, intense workouts, often just 20-45 minutes long, are time-efficient yet highly effective.

Scheduled Exercise: I schedule my workouts into my daily calendar like essential meetings. This ensures they remain a priority despite a busy schedule. I usually workout at 6:30 am on the weekdays.

Fitness Apps: I utilize the Fitbod fitness app, which provides flexible training programs and guided workouts that fit my time constraints.

Staying Active Throughout the Day: I make it a point to take short breaks for stretching or a quick walk, especially when I’m desk-bound for long periods.

These strategies help me stay fit and active, balancing my professional commitments with personal health.

Chris Pruitt, CEO and Certified Trainer, WorkoutHealthy

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Stay Accountable with a Personal Trainer

For busy entrepreneurs like me, maintaining fitness amidst a hectic schedule can be quite challenging. One of the best decisions I’ve made for my health and fitness has been hiring a personal trainer. They offer tailored workouts that fit into my busy routine and help me stay focused on my fitness goals, even with a packed schedule.

A significant advantage of having a personal trainer is the accountability they provide, especially when traveling for business. They can adapt workout plans to suit travel schedules and available resources, ensuring I stay on track no matter where I am. This consistency is crucial for maintaining fitness and overall well-being while managing the demands of entrepreneurship.

Gene Caballero, Co-Founder, GreenPal

👉 Check out how Gene and his co-founders built GreenPal to $30 million in revenue.

Long-Term Fitness Requires Intentionality

I own a land-investment business and have a toddler at home, so getting a six pack by six months postpartum took intention.

Like any goals you set, the habits that will get you there have to be prioritized and worked into your schedule. If you want to start a new project and have it ready next month, you need to figure out what resources you have, what you’re willing to do to make it happen, and map out the actions you need to take along with their deadlines.

In the case of health and fitness, the same principles hold true. Take a look at what resources you have:

• Do you have a time block you can dedicate a workout to, or will you need to implement some exercise “snacks”?
• Would meal planning be most accommodating to your lifestyle or is ordering healthy food in your budget?
• And, importantly, do you have workout clothes you feel confident in?

Next, what are you willing to do to reach your goal? Most people see these sacrifices with a sort of FOMO.

“What if giving up sleeping in or drinks after work is pointless and I just miss out on those things?”

But entrepreneurs are naturally not as risk adverse as the average person, so apply that same mentality to your fitness goals.

Finally, what habits do you need to start to get to your goal? Whether it’s skipping the morning pastry with your coffee or bringing your workout bag everywhere you go, plan out those habits! Maybe you’re like me and scheduling the gym each day ensures that you spend time away from the office and, instead, focusing on your health and fitness.

Remember, you have accomplished so many small goals to get where you are with your business. You’ve overcome obstacles and fought through the doubts. This is no different. You’re reaching for a better life for you and those around you. Keep fighting.

Dallas Waldon, Managing Partner, Land Boss

Up Your Health Game: Fitness Strategies for Busy Entrepreneurs

Fitness isn’t just another task on our to-do list as an entrepreneur and business owner. It’s a crucial part of our well-being and success.

The stories shared here show that with a bit of creativity and commitment, integrating fitness into our busy lives is achievable. Let’s take inspiration from them and make health a priority, not only for our physical well-being, but for our businesses and personal lives too.

Remember, it’s not about finding time. It’s about making time.