There is nothing wrong with working diligently to achieve a life goal, maintain financial security, or earn recognition in a competitive industry. There is, however, something very wrong when occupational commitments take precedence over one’s physical well being.
It’s important to distinguish between having a solid work ethic and being an all-out workaholic, a person who is addicted to work and whose health, as a result, may be in serious jeopardy.
Let’s face it, working yourself into mental exhaustion exacerbates problematic eating behaviours, which can have disastrous consequences for your weight and overall health.
Comfort foods and junk food binges often become the only escape for workaholics who vest their interest in their career before their health. Research has found that weight gain in competitive corporate environments is typical.
Fortunately, the solution isn’t too far off from the typical behaviours of career crusaders who maintain rigorous professional schedules.
Weight Loss for the Workaholic – The Basic Principles
There are four basic principles a workaholic needs to understand when factoring a weight-loss plan into a daily schedule that leaves no room for error:
- Making a Commitment
- Designing a Practical Diet Plan
- Establishing Exercise as Part of a Routine
- Creating Internal Competition
Here are 7 ways that you can start working out more, even if you’re a workaholic!
- Incorporate exercise into your day
There are lots of ways that you can include physical activity into your workday:
* Taking the stairs in your office, instead of the elevator.
* Get off a few stops than you usually would and walk.
* If you’re driving to work, try to park a little further away than usual.
* Stand up throughout the day.
* Look at getting a standing desk.
- Office Exercises
Do leg lifts under your desk. Sit on your chair with your feet flat on the floor and should width apart. Slowly lift your legs and hold them before lowering them slowly. Adding weights can also help you step things up a gear. You can also add in some jumping jacks, and wall sits.
- Quick Home Workout
At-home workouts are great ways for anyone, not just workaholics, to get in an extra dose of physical activity. Why not try out the following…
* Stretch and warm-up for a few minutes
* Plank: Hold for 1 minute
* Push-ups: Do 20-30
* Squats: Do 20-30
* Lunges: Do 15 on each side
* Repeat at least twice
- Prepare
If you’re planning on heading to the gym before or after work, make sure you’re prepping your workout gear the night before. Pack your gym bag and leave it by the front door, ready to go in the morning.
- Lunchtime Walks
So many people spend their lunchtime sat at their desks. Use that time productively and get out of the office for a while. Keep your walking shoes in the car and get in at least a 30-minute walk.
- Early Morning Exercise
Some workplaces provide shower facilities for staff. If yours offers this, then consider going for a run and showering before you start work.
- Find a Gym that Meets your Needs
Many gyms now offer classes at various times throughout the day. If you want to get fit but worry that nowhere will match your schedule, then do a bit of research. There will surely be somewhere near you that suits your needs.
