How to get that gym time in despite a busy schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to reaching your fitness goals. A short amount of time working consistently is better than a long workout occasionally.

Sadly, consistency is hard for busy people; life gets in the way, and you may find yourself slipping off the fitness bandwagon.

Building and rebuilding a consistent exercise routine begins with one simple step: getting started! But, we get it. If you haven't hit the gym in a while, it is hard to regain the momentum needed to kick-start your routine again.

Set a specific goal and a deadline. Making it specific and tacking on a deadline is key as it brings urgency to your efforts. You can procrastinate when your goal is simply to "lose weight." But, if your goal is to "lose 10 pounds by Thanksgiving," you're more likely to hit your target because you have a measure for success.

If possible, set a performance-based goal, also. Signing up for a 5K walk or run. This can help you choose the right workout routine and take the focus off that number on the scale.

Instead of upping weights to build strength, work on a few basic moves like squats, deadlifts, push-ups and rows. Vary your pace as you perform each move- slow and steady, then speed up. This can help you engage different muscle groups and see progress faster. Pick a few fundamental exercises and strive to get stronger at them every workout.