Lack of time is the most common explanation that people offer for giving up an exercise programme. But few people realise that, even if they do not have time for intensive workouts, they can stay fit with an abbreviated exercise routine. Once you have achieved a moderate level of fitness, you can maintain it despite a busy schedule. Even if you spend long hours working in an office or caring for children at home, or if your working week is often interrupted by business travel, there are exercises that you can do virtually anywhere to keep yourself in shape. Those who let their training lapse may face the challenge of reestablishing the benefits they have lost, which demands much more time and energy than merely maintaining fitness.