Undrey/Shutterstock.com
7 Expert Tips for Staying in Shape While Working from Home
In today’s world, millions of Americans have adapted to working from home. With gyms either closed or gradually reopening, maintaining fitness may seem challenging, especially without a lavish home gym.
To stay fit, individuals just need to think outside the box when it comes to their workouts. With warmer weather approaching, here are several strategies to remain in shape while working remotely.
The Pros and Cons of Working from Home
The option to work from home offers the flexibility to design a routine that enhances your work-life balance. It allows you to manage pet care while finding comfort in a space free from colleagues.
However, working from home isn’t suitable for everyone. It can prove distracting unless you establish clear boundaries. Kids might enter your workspace unexpectedly, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks. Additionally, the nearby television may tempt you into lounging on the couch for a quick viewing break.
Choosing to relax instead of focusing on meal preparation and exercise can be simple. Given the numerous chances to deviate from a healthy lifestyle, establishing structure in your life becomes crucial.
-
Take Breaks to Eat
Though it may appear unconventional to begin with advice that encourages eating more, nutritional habits are vital when working from home. Many mistakenly believe eating healthily is straightforward when your workspace is near your kitchen, but this isn’t always true.
Preparing snacks and meals ahead is essential, especially during busy periods. It’s common to overlook meals when engrossed in work, leading to overeating later on.
Plan breaks and lunch throughout your day and fill your home with healthy food options. Conduct meal prep in advance to minimize the time spent on meal preparation during working hours. Keep the refrigerator stocked with nutritious grab-and-go items. Consider pre-portioning healthy snacks, such as fruits, nuts, and hummus, while also reducing sugary and refined carb intake.
-
Schedule Workout Time on Your Calendar
It’s all too easy to fall into a habit of neglecting your workouts. To combat this, treat your workout sessions as you would any important meeting or project on your calendar. Many people mistakenly assume they’ll work out simply because they’re at home.
The advantages of exercising include:
- Promoting relaxation and better sleep.
- Providing enhanced self-esteem for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression.
- Boosting productivity levels.
-
Go for a Day Hike on the Weekend
There’s no better way to de-stress after a challenging work week than embarking on a day hike in nature. Equip yourself with tactical hiking boots and pack essentials into a convenient sling pack or backpack.
Transforming your surroundings is an excellent method for alleviating stress while engaging in physical activity. If you’re up for some adventure, consider turning it into a weekend camping escapade! Whether you take the family along or opt for a solo retreat, hiking serves as a fantastic way to prepare yourself for the upcoming work week.
SedovaY/Shutterstock.com
-
Drink Water
Even in environments where water is readily available, dehydration poses a significant risk.The faucet is located in the adjacent room. You might find yourself engrossed in various tasks, and before you realize it, all you’ve consumed throughout the day is coffee. Dehydration can result in both headaches and fatigue, significantly reducing your productivity. Experts recommend that you take your body weight in pounds, divide it by two, and aim to drink that amount in ounces of water.
-
Create an Evening Ritual
Approach your work-from-home position as you would any standard job. When you used to go into the office, you would pack up and leave work behind at the end of the day. It’s beneficial to establish a designated workspace at home, allowing you to close the door—both literally and figuratively—when your workday concludes.
While working from home, the temptation to sneak back into your workspace for a bit of extra work after dinner can be strong. However, it’s essential to try and leave work at work. Closing the door at day’s end can help. Develop a shutdown routine to signify the end of the workday. It can be quite simple; for example, shutting your laptop and stowing it away communicates that work time has ended. This transition also allows you to shift from managing emails to enjoying quality time with your loved ones.
-
Participate in an Online Fitness Class
At present, while many gyms and studios may be closed, they are not entirely unavailable. Many are now providing online courses. Enroll in an online yoga session or various other classes. This approach keeps you accountable and less likely to skip your workout routines.
Furthermore, you can turn it into a fun family activity by getting everyone involved. It promotes physical fitness and encourages engagement among family members.
Pindyurin Vasily/Shutterstock.com
-
Bring the Gym to Your Home
If heading to the gym is not an option, consider setting up a gym at home. There’s no need for a specialized room filled with machines and weights. You can simply utilize everyday household items that are already at your disposal for workouts.
For instance, soup cans or books can serve as light weights, and a folding chair can easily be transformed into a bench for doing dips. A beach towel works wonderfully as a yoga mat, while a paper plate can function as a slider.
If you prefer not to follow a cardio workout video, consider using your stairs instead. Laundry detergent containers or a gallon of milk can effectively replace a kettlebell.
Got some outdoor chores to tackle? Digging with a shovel can provide a workout comparable to unilateral training.
Whether you are staying indoors or looking to cut back on gym membership costs, there are alternative methods to maintain your fitness routine. Get the whole family involved with activities like hiking or camping, and remember that simple household items can aid in keeping you fit while working from home.