One of the greatest challenges that any individual seeking to lose weight faces is the time needed for exercise. Let's face it: Our hectic lifestyles simply leave very little time for working out. The demands of our careers, school and family life take up majority of our waking hours that it's a constant challenge trying to find time to actually exercise. However, there is a solution. There are exercises that save time without compromising its effects to your efforts to lose weight and/or stay fit and healthy.

One way of incorporating exercise into your busy schedule is to walk or cycle to and from work when you can. With the ever increasing number of cars in our city streets, walking or cycling your way around can even get you to your destination faster.

Another way of getting in some quality workout is to multi-task. Lift weights or run the treadmill while watching the news. Do stretches while getting absorbed in your favorite soap opera. If you really need to focus on the drama, do your stretches while the commercials are on.

Super-setting is another exercise method that is time-saving. Normally, you take the time to rest between sets while doing your weight lifting regimen. But in super-setting, you save time since you simply rest the muscle you have previously worked out and continue to exercise the opposite one. For instance, you can exercise the chest and upper back or the front and the back of the upper arm.

Circuit training is one of those exercises that save time. Circuit training combines cardiovascular training with resistance training in one fast-paced workout. Begin by warming up with a jog or any cardiovascular exercise for ten minutes. Do a set of four resistance training exercises like chest press, leg presses, push ups and pull ups. Go into another cardiovascular routine for ten minutes. Do another three sets of resistance exercises alternated with cardio exercises. End your workout with a ten-minute cool down.

Playing a game or any sport is another way to get a good workout if you are given a limited amount of time. At the most, a game is only going to last one hour. You also get the benefit of fun and the stimulating power of competition.

Aside from merely doing these exercises that save time, you can also maximize the most of your workout sessions Put everything you've got into your session so you really get the most benefit from your training. Don't just go through the motions but focus on your routine. Give it the best you've got and you're sure to reap the gains even if you only workout for a shorter period.

Finally, you can actually make time for your exercise if you plan it ahead of time. There is really no such thing as being too busy for exercise if you really make a conscious effort to include it in your routine. Pack your gym bag ahead of time so you don't have to waste valuable time picking up things or deciding on what to wear for your workout. By doing these and the tips mentioned above, you should still be able to exercise despite your hectic schedule.