By Michael Scholtz, M.A., Best Life fitness expert

You want to exercise—you really do. But you just can't seem to find the time. Or maybe your motivation has flat-lined lately. To the rescue: Tricks to make a fitness schedule and stick to it!

Tips for the time-crunched
Be active all day long. Can't make your workout? Do the next best thing: Use all the running around and chores you have to do to your advantage. Park in the farthest spot at the grocery store. Use the stairs every chance you get. Take your dog out for a long stroll rather than a quick once-around in the yard.

Rise and sweat. Set the alarm an hour earlier and go for a walk or do a fitness DVD before work. Studies show that people who exercise in the a.m. stick with their routines better than those who put it off.

Streamline the process. Keep workout clothes in your car and at the office so you're always prepared. If you exercise in the morning, lay out your clothes the night before. Eliminate extra steps so they don't trip you up.

Advice for those low on motivation
Adjust your priorities. Here's a simple lesson: If you value something, you'll do it. So when you place exercise as one of the last things on your to-do list, odds are you won't get to it. Make exercise your top priority, and you'll find the time.

Set goals. Make your goals clear and attainable. Instead of, "I'm going to exercise more," try: "I'm going to get up at 7 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and walk on the treadmill for 30 minutes." It's precise, realistic and easy to achieve.

Make it personal. Don't view exercise just as a way to shed pounds. Find something of personal value that it provides, like a spicier sex life or the ability to play with your kids. Remind yourself of these benefits whenever your motivation wanes.