Creative Workout Solutions

One of the challenges to getting in a workout or getting into shape is the pace of life in today’s world.  Between kids, work schedules and other commitments, it can be overwhelming to find time or the energy to schedule and actually complete a quality and enjoyable workout routine. 

Ironically, with as busy as we are, we spend a lot of time simply sitting at our desk on conference calls or plopped down in front of the television in an idle state.  If you really take a look at how your time is spent, there are ample opportunities to look for creative ways to incorporate a workout routine into your already jammed packed schedule.

While you won’t be able to get in a high intensity cardio workout while at work, there are some things you can do that will provide you some workout relief, namely strength training and stretching in addition to light cardio.  Here are some ideas and activities you can use to help you improve your fitness during those long conference calls or when you need a break from spreadsheets or mental fatigue.

Like everything else in your life, go ahead and plan your workout.  Look for times you have an opportunity for some quick exercises and place them on your calendar.  Look at doing some form of exercise every hour as it helps break up your day and will help improve your energy, especially in the afternoon. 

Instead of going out for lunch which usually results in less than healthy food choices, make a plan to pack your lunch.  You can enjoy a quick bite to eat then use the rest of the time to either take a walk or partake in other exercise activities that I have outlined below.

Now that you have identified some time to add physical activity to your day at work or while watching television, here are some easy exercise and workout ideas to help you improve your fitness and productivity.

Exercise resistance bands are an excellent way to add strength training to your day and can be used almost anywhere.  They are affordable, take up little space, come in various tensions and easily fit in a back pack or suitcase.  These bands allow you to work all major muscle groups for both the upper and lower body and you can add bands as you get stronger.

For those with offices, kettle bells also provide a great way to build strength in targeted muscles while improving core strength. They come in a variety of weights and don’t take up much space.

Pushups and ab crunches can be done anywhere and provide an excellent way to build strength in a few minutes a day.

One element that most people tend to overlook or shortchange is stretching.  Stretching can be done anywhere and not only improves flexibility; it can aid in stress relief and provide an energy boost when needed most.

HERE’S TO BEING FIT FOR LIFE!

Chris is a Certified Personal Trainer and exercise and endurance enthusiast.  He competes yearly in numerous running races, marathons, ultra marathons, triathlons and other endurance events.