When your to-do list has more tasks than you have time, the last thing you want to think about is adding exercise. Think again. Working out can help you generate more energy, focus, and confidence. You’ll actually feel more productive, too. So how can you sneak some exercise in an already jam-packed workday? Try these tips.
Practice sneaky fitness
Think of exercise as all-day movement, rather than just a 30 or 60 minute carve out in your day. Use these ways to get more movement in:
- Head for the farthest bathroom or copier.
- Take the stairs.
- Park as far as you can away from the office entrance.
- Try a mixed commute – bike or walk part of the way to work.
- Walk to lunch.
Walk and talk
Walking meetings can improve productivity and problem-solving. Gather the team, get on your feet and get going for win-win.
Try some break room fitness
Working out is fun when there’s more than one person. Ask a co-worker or two to join you in the break room for 15 minutes of morning or afternoon fitness. As a bonus you’ll beat the mid-day slump and feel less tempted to boost your energy with high-calorie snacks.
Keep your gym bag handy
If you’re going to be sitting in rush hour traffic anyway, why not head to the gym instead? Find a fitness center close to your work and stop in for a 30-minute sweat session. You might even get home at about the same time if you wait for the heaviest rush time to pass before getting on the road.
Consider a stability ball
Trade out your office chair part of the day for a stability ball. Maintaining your balance on the ball provides a good workout for core muscles. You’ll also burn more calories than you would sitting on a chair.
Try a standing desk
Standing desks may help you improve productivity, reduce weight gain and ease back strain. No worries if you don’t have a standing desk. Instead, find opportunities to stand – while taking calls or even responding to email messages. Use a laptop rather than a desktop and for a few minutes each hour, work while standing.
Again, rethink what fitness looks like to get more exercise. Think smaller chunks – even 5 or 10 minutes at a time throughout the day can help you get in shape. Move more all day to make exercise fit in even the busiest schedule.
