Working out at Work

Photo from: MBA Podcaster's blog
Most of us have desk jobs. We sit for at least eight hours a day. Personally, I noticed a difference in my health and happiness when I went from carefree college student to desk dweller. No more walking to and from class. No more general running around. I had no idea how much that change in activity was going to affect me.

The first step in any process is to acknowledge there needs to be a change. I once worked at a great location that had a locker room complete with shower. That allowed me to run a few miles over lunch and not be too gross to sit next to for the next four hours.

That kind of set up is an anomaly. Sure there are a few places where there’s a gym on site or where one is within super close distance to he office, but that really isn’t feasible for me. I can’t get there, work out, shower and get back in only 60 minutes.

My solution was to make working out after work a priority. It’s made a difference, but there’s still that antsy feeling I get when I sit too long typing away at a computer. We had a walking group for about a week, until the timing didn’t work with everyone’s schedule. I realized it is entirely up to me to try to be active (without sweating) at work.

I brought in a swiss ball. I’ve brought in hand weights and bands. I intend to spend my two allotted 15 minute breaks lifting weights. I hope this helps that antsy feeling. I’ve heard it can also help with concentration and can wake you up more than a cup of coffee.

How do you keep fit (or not) at the office?