3 Ways to Multitask During Your Workout

Why, yes—she applies a face mask before she gets her downward dog on! Obviously, this time-saving trick won't work for every workout routine—spin class with a face mask on would result in a goopy, streaky mess—but there are other things that you can do while exercising. I mean, there are days where your "to-do list" might as well be called your "to-do manifesto"...those things only get longer, dang it.

You can watch TV, catch up on your required reading, and listen to newscasts while you work out—but you can also sneak in some multitasking exercises when you're not even at the gym yet.

Do your hair and tone your glutes. How long do you typically stand in front of the mirror, drying your hair after your morning shower? Or putting on your makeup? Or brushing your teeth? Even if your getting-ready routine is only a minute or two long, that's really all you need to work your butt and thighs with some squats! Stand with your feet slightly farther apart than hip-width, tighten your core, and slowly bend your knees until you're basically sitting in an invisible chair. Slowly press back up to standing, and repeat for about a minute.

Work your butt...at work! Believe it or not, there are lots of ways to exercise even while you're sitting at your desk, scrolling through your inbox—check out these four calorie-torching moves. And you can do it quite discreetly too, simply by squeezing your butt muscles while you're at your desk. Keep your abs tight and squeeze and release your glutes throughout the day.

Walk—or jiggle—when you take a call. Did you know that fidgeting burns an extra 350 calories a day? That's because fidgeters move about 150 minutes more per day than non-fidgeters. If you're not prone to jiggling your legs during a phone call, pace around your office or apartment instead. Fitness experts suggest getting in 10,000 steps every day—that's equivalent to 5 miles.

Do you ever multitask when you exercise? What's your favorite trick?