The Vine News

We’ve all heard the excuses – I have no time. I have to pick up the children, help with homework, prepare dinner, get them in bed and prepare for tomorrow. It’s too far to the gym. The list goes on.

Well then here’s a solution: exercise at work.

Some employers offer free classes on the job, such as: aerobics, Pilates, yoga, strength training or resist-a-ball.

Other companies pay a portion of gym memberships, and extend lunchtime so that employees can get or stay fit, and keep insurance premiums low.

But if you’re not lucky enough for that, you can start a walking group. Walking outside and taking in fresh air, will improve your circulatory system, and help you get a better night’s rest. In inclement weather, walk indoors, or try another option and climb the stairs at work.

You can also get creative. If your company has unused space in the building, inquire about building a gym. Co-workers may have exercise equipment that they no longer use at home. Ask them to donate it and voila! You have a fully-equipped gym ready to use anytime.

There are benefits beyond the obvious that come from centering your exercise program around your work schedule. You can save money on gasoline (by walking to work or parking farther away), save money on food if you work out during the day, and reduce workday stress.

But the biggest benefits have to do with creating a better life. Daily exercise goes a long way toward helping prevent diseases such as high cholesterol and diabetes, and while your’e building muscle, strength, and endurance and losing pounds and inches, you’ll also be developing a healthier lifestyle that includes making healthier food choices.

Lastly, exercise will provide us with something we all need at work and afterward – energy.

It makes sense to find the time to fit it in

Jackie Simmons is an aerobics instructor and a contributor to the Born to Move Newsletter where this article first appeared. You can see this and other similar articles at www.borntomove.org