Many of us work such long days that we think we simply don’t have time to squeeze in exercise. Nothing could be further from the truth. The workday holds abundant opportunities for physical activity. Even desk jockeys have plenty of ways to incorporate fitness into their workday. Jot these suggestions down in your day planner, and you’ll be climbing the corporate fitness ladder in no time.
The first rule of keeping fit during the workday sounds almost effortlessly easy, but it isn’t as easy as it seems: move. Many jobs keep us sedentary for hours on end. We must remember to move. Can’t remember? Set an hourly alarm. It may sound silly, but it works. When the alarm sounds, stand up and move around a bit. Swing your arms. Extend your legs. Breathe deeply. This will raise your mental alertness, and will likely increase your productivity level. Bonus!
More about moving. Our society has become far too lazy, and we have expanding waistlines to show for it. When was the last time you took the stairs? Time to befriend them. Taking the stairs only takes a few extra minutes. It’s definitely worth it. About email: while it’s unquestionably one of the greatest assets of workplace productivity, it’s not doing much for our physiques.
Time to reacquaint yourself with some stone-age communication practices. If you need to speak with someone in the office, rise from your desk, walk to his or her office and actually speak to him or her in person rather than phone or email them. Also, consider delivering messages yourself rather than electronically. If Mrs. Smith receives a phone message, why not deliver the message yourself rather than simply drafting an email and clicking the send button? Speaking of the telephone, if yours isn’t wireless, ask the boss for a new one. Speaking on a wireless phone allows you to get up and move. Opt for the healthy choice.
Business travel doesn’t need to be detrimental to your fitness regimen. Let’s begin at the airport. No moving walkways for you, slim. Walk to that gate. Killer layover? Walk it off. Not only will you burn calories, but you’ll also engage in some great people watching while you’re at it. Fortunately, airports are upgrading their selections to include healthy food options. Now, at nearly every major airport, travelers can find smoothies, salads, wraps and fresh fruit offerings. Once you’ve reached your destination, insist on hotels with swimming pools and fitness centers. If all else fails, bring a jump rope along and work out in your room. Remember: 15 minutes jumping rope = 200 calories burned. Not too shabby.
You’re a master scheduler. Why not schedule in fitness? Think about joining that gym near the office. Many businesses have corporate memberships with substantial savings. If you just can’t swing it, at least pencil in a few lunchtime walks each week. Perhaps some coworkers will want to join you. Next thing you know, you’ll be negotiating contracts as you burn calories. Not a bad way to spend the day.