Design your own 15-minute workout

Running short on time? Try your best not to let a full schedule interfere with your workout. You should schedule your exercise time and give it high priority on your to-do list. Don't look at your workout as something you can take or leave at your convenience. The fact is that staying fit and healthy will help you manage the rest of your chores more effectively -- you'll have more energy to be on the go, go, go.

But we all have those days where we just can't squeeze in a long workout routine. When there's just no way a real workout will work, try a quick 15-minute routine. AOL Health has a great 15-minute strength training routine. Or, if you'd rather, you can design your own workout.

• 10 minutes of cardio. Pick a convenient cardio activity that you can do almost anywhere and with minimal equipment. Walking, running, and jumping rope are all good options.
  

• 4 minutes of strength training. You won't have time to cover all your muscle groups in four minutes, so learn a variety of strength training moves and switch it up every time. Try these ideas for abs, arms, butt, and legs.
• 1 minute of flexibility exercise. A few simple stretches while your muscles are warmed up is beneficial.
  
  

Is 15 minutes as good as an extended workout? No. But it can provide some health benefits, so it will do in a pinch. Figure out a routine that works for you. Then, the next day you're crunched for time, you'll already know what to do.