Keeping Active While Working or Studying

 The Problem

In our busy world, we often tend to get so wrapped up in meeting the demands of our work and family life, that we often forget to meet the demands of our body: Move!

All too often, we feel that if we take some time to do this for ourself, then we are not "giving enough" of ourselves. However, this is not really true: If you don't look after yourself, there is less of you to give to the other areas. 

Reframing

So, let's first work on reframing our rules: It is a good idea to move and stay active so that we can be healthier and enjoy doing the things that are important to us. 

Note: It is always good to check with your health professional before commencing any new physical activity routine. 

Gradual Change

Being active is not a "zero-sum" game, in which you either have to be doing something at the top level, or not at all. No, you just have to start somewhere. 

Starting can mean something as simple as moving around for 5-10 minutes per hour. Set a timer on your phone, on your computer, watch, or stove. (Even better - make sure the timer is somewhere you have to walk to in order to turn it off.) Now, you might have to be practical here - set it so that you get up at a time when you can do so. But make a commitment to do this for 5-10 minutes out of each hour you are sitting. 

Starting can mean that you keep your walking shoes near you so that you can slip them on for an outdoor walk with little notice. That's right - plan ahead. Keep your shoes and outerwear nearby so that if you have 10-15 minutes, you can go for a walk around the neighbourhood! Keep your mask handy as well so that you can meet the requirements of any local mask mandates. 

Starting can mean that you find an online "Walk at Home" video. Did you know that these exist? I was amazed to find these early on in the pandemic. I would recommend Leslie Sansone's "Walk at Home" videos, which are currently available here. I like these because there really are four major types of steps, and you can choose 1 mile, 2 mile, or 3 mile videos. The four major steps are walking, kicks, knee lifts, and side-to-side movements. There are also "curl-back" movements, and some upper-arm movements that help break up the videos. Some of them involve just the four activities, and some include wrist weight or stretch band options (you will need to purchase your own equipment for those).  These generally take between 15-45 minutes, so you can select the one that is right for you. You can also just walk if you cannot keep up, so one should not worry if they cannot do everything in the video. 

Whatever you do, start slow and move up gradually. This is about your progress, so it's not a competition. 

If you do it...

Be sure to keep track of it - celebrate what you do, and encourage others to join you. 

Do it so you can do all of those things you love longer!