how to stay active when you work all day
Ways to move your body …
even when you can’t hit the gym.
Leading a healthy life does not solely depend on spending an hour at the gym each day. Yes, it is important to sweat once a day, but we often get caught up in this idea that exercise can only happen at the gym. And, let's face it - some days we just can't make it.
So, what can you do to remain active when you work all day?
Read below for practical tips to keep your activity level up when you can't hit the weights or make your 5 p.m. spin class ...
Stand – as much as you can. You are more likely to walk around and move if you are not sitting stagnant in a chair. In fact, stand whenever you can, at work or not
Use a medicine ball in place of a chair – keep your core engaged and work on your balance throughout the day
3 pm coffee and pastry run? How about a walk with your coffee and a co-worker instead? (and treat yourself to good coffee beans // trust me, you won't need the high-calorie creamer + excess sugar if you do). Swap the sugary pastry for a little endorphin hit and you'll likely feel much better at 5 o'clock.
Take the stairs ... work those glutes
Use technology to your advantage and invest in a smartwatch or band ... many of them will alert you when you haven't been moving enough or hitting your daily goal. Sometimes a little reminder is all you need! Knowledge is power, my friends.
Lunchtime yoga anyone? Yoga is great for your body and mind. It will leave you rejuvenated with a clear head, and you will be ready to conquer the afternoon. It will also lengthen your muscles without leaving you drenched in sweat // win-win
Get the whole team involved! Workout buddies are the best (mine quickly became my best friend) and they are great for accountability! See if you can hold a friendly competition or create a reward system as an initiative.
You'll be happier, healthier, and more productive if you take time to move your body. Remember, small adjustments are all it takes for a healthy life!
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This post was written by Kelly Powers, MA, RDN. Kelly is a Registered Dietitian and Culinary Nutritionist who takes a holistic approach to nutrition and health. She is a recipe developer with a food blog highlighting whole foods, simple recipes, and her life in San Francisco. Kelly is the creator of Weeknight Dinners, a weekly meal plan program that helps users get back in the kitchen and feed themselves well. Kelly specializes in meal planning, the Mediterranean diet, and sustainable behavior change, helping her clients reach their health goals while improving their relationship with food.
Image courtesy of @yehitsnancy (IG)