Contrary to popular assumption, working from home takes a significant amount of time and effort. I’m sure you’ve heard someone say, “They don’t actually have a job, they just work from home.” That statement could not be further from the truth! A home business will take up almost all of your time. As a result, a lot of other things get pushed to the back of your mind. One of the first things to go is likely to be fitness.
When you have a never-ending to-do list, a house that never seems to keep clean, and family and/or friends that demand your attention, it’s logical that exercise takes a second seat. However, it shouldn’t.
Exercise has so many benefits that it should always be a part of your weekly routine. Of course, we’re all aware that exercising can help you stay in shape and maintain your weight.
Are you aware, however, of all the other benefits of exercise?
Physical activity can help you sleep better and reduce stress, which are two benefits that busy at-home workers and business owners can benefit from. Fitness has been related to a reduction in the risk of certain diseases as well as the prevention of depression. Researchers believe that strength training can help prevent osteoporosis.
If that isn’t motivation enough, keep in mind that exercise improves self-esteem, stamina, and eventually allows you to work for longer lengths of time. What more could a person ask for?
During the day, taking regular 5-minute pauses to run up and down the stairs (or even just walk). This will also help you to rejuvenate your thoughts.
Long periods of time spent in front of a computer can be stressful on your body, especially your posture. As a result, choose a comfortable position where you can stand to do your computer work on occasion.
It is not necessary for you to exercise for 30 minutes consecutively. You’ll gain just as much benefit if you break up your exercise into small chunks. If you just said you didn’t have any “after work” time, try 10 minutes before you start work, 10 minutes at lunch, and 10 minutes after you finish work.
Cook large portion meals on the weekend that you can freeze if you don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen but still want to eat healthy. Then just defrost and reheat for weeknight supper. This saves you time from having to prepare dinner, and you won’t have to sacrifice calories as you would if you ordered take-out instead.
Working from home provides various advantages, including the ability to exercise during your lunch break without ever leaving your desk, as well as the convenience of not having to bring your workout clothes and toiletries to work.
This saves you time on the road, which you may put towards getting a healthy snack. If you don’t have any face-to-face meetings scheduled, you also don’t have to worry about looking perfect after your workout.
If you haven’t already, get a good hands-free headset for your phone. This is a great way to multitask because your hands are free to do other things while you concentrate on your conference call. You can also do some easy (but useful) exercises. Exercises such as squats, tricep dips, lunges, wall push-ups, and others are effective.
Keep healthful snacks on hand for times you need a pick-me-up or just something to chew on while working on a particularly difficult assignment. Always have a bottle of water on hand and consume it throughout the day.
For workout, get a stability ball. While the ball can be used for a variety of toning activities, simply sitting on it can be beneficial. Throughout the day, try using it in place of a chair for short periods of time. This will help you increase your core strength (your trunk area).
Don’t underestimate the importance of stretching. Stand up and stretch your entire body for a few minutes per hour.
As you can see, exercise provides significant benefits even with a small amount of effort. You can also set a good example for your children by exercising. So, it’s time to stop making excuses and get moving for the sake of yourself, your company, and your family!
