 |  Alison Pylkkänen
Alison is the Editor of Zest, the UK's best-selling Health, Beauty and Fitness magazine. |  |
- Use a video.
Buy a fitness video that breaks workouts down into mini sections focusing on either body parts (abs, arms and legs) or goals (relaxing, strengthening and toning). That way, you'll always have time to squeeze in one section, even when you haven't got time to do the whole thing.
- Organise a girls night out.
Pick somewhere with great music. In two hours on the dancefloor, you could burn up to 600 Calories!
- Can't face the thought of trekking to the gym?
The hottest way to sweat it out is closer to home, according to US trendspotters, who claim people are newly turned on to the idea of working out in their own community. So offer to accompany your neighbour when she's walking the dog, sign up for a local yoga class, or make the most of your nearest park.
- Bouncy, bouncy!
A 10 minute bounce on a trampoline will make you feel like a kid again and it offers the same health benefits as a 30-minute jog, according to a study by NASA!
- Splash out!
Swimming can make you feel hungrier than running because your body has to work harder to keep its temperature stable in water. So if you want to avoid the post-workout munchies, it might be best to avoid the pool.
- Splits.
If running solidly for 20 minutes feels too difficult, split it up by running for four minutes and walking for one. Repeat this three to four times, and build up your running time as you get fitter.
- Still water.
Drinking two litres of still water a day helps you burn 150 calories by stimulating your nervous system and increasing your metabolism.
- Calcium.
Eat plenty of calcium-rich foods. Studies show that high levels of calcium may suppress the hormones that make us hold on to stored fat. Good sources of calcium include green, leafy vegetables and low-fat dairy products.
- Want Britney-style abs?
Invest in a hula hoop. The newest varieties are weighted, so they work your waist and abs harder than traditional plastic hula-hoops.
- Treat yourself.
If your workout gear is ancient or frumpy, you aren't going to feel good wearing it. Treat yourself to some cool new fit-kit, and it'll motivate you to exercise more.
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