I may have a job that I love, but I thoroughly look forward to the weekends. I like to relax, sleep in, spend more time with my boyfriend, and do as little as my heart desires. Each day promises freedom and potential to do whatever I want!

Most of us have more free time on the weekends. Sure, we have laundry to wash and groceries to buy, but we usually plan some much-needed football watching, naps and friendly socializing in there, too.

When it comes to eating healthy and exercising, the weekend could either help or hurt your efforts. You probably have more time to plan and cook healthful meals on the weekend, but you're also more likely to dine out on these days. Likewise, you probably have more time and freedom to work out on a Saturday than on a Monday, but many of us prefer to use the weekends as rest and recovery days.

Since I've been tracking my workouts more diligently this year, I have noticed certain patterns in my behavior. Earlier this year, I learned that I don't like to exercise on Fridays (a habit that I have since changed!), but I've also noticed how the weekends affect my own workouts overall.

This led me to wonder: How do weekends affect your workout routine?

I like to take advantage of the extra time that weekends provide. I do two shorter runs during the week because of time constraints, so I will do a longer run each weekend, knowing I can go as far as I want because I don't have to rush to get to work. I also tend to do more lifestyle activities, like working in the yard, playing tennis, walking around the neighborhood or going for a hike in the park. In the summer, I like to take my bike to a nearby trail and ride for a couple of hours—something I never take the time to do on a weekday.

Don't get me wrong—my weekends aren't filled to the brim with exercise; it varies. But I do try to stay active and do a planned workout at least one of the two days. For people who struggle to fit in workouts during the week, whether because of school, work or childcare commitments, the weekend may provide the time that you need to squeeze in exercise consistently, taking the pressure off of always trying to fit in workouts during the weekdays. You can involve your family and friends in your weekend workout pursuits, too. My best friend and I like to go hiking together—instead of just heading out for dinner or drinks—so we can catch up (and burn calories).

How about you: How do weekends affect your workout routine? Do you exercise more or less during these days?