After the holidays, getting back into the swing of work can feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping active. Busy schedules, lingering holiday indulgence, and a break from routine can make fitting in exercise seem almost impossible. The good news is, that getting back to work doesn’t mean you have to skip out on physical activity. It can be a fun part of your day that lifts your mood and boosts energy. Here are six enjoyable ways to stay active, even with a hectic schedule, to help you ease back into work and feel great.
Tips To Stay Active After Coming Back From Holidays
1. Dance Your Way Back to Fitness
Getting back into a fitness routine after a break can feel daunting, but dance can make it exciting and easy. Whether taking a dance class, following an online routine, or just dancing around your living room, dancing offers a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and burns calories. Plus, it doesn’t require any special equipment – just put on your favourite playlist and move to the beat!
2. Outdoor Walking
Getting outdoors for a walk or hike is not only good for your physical health but also enhances your mental well-being. After the holiday season's stress, immersing yourself in nature can help you clear your thoughts, lower your stress levels, and enjoy some fresh air. Walking is one of the simplest workouts you can fit into your daily routine, as it can be done at a pace that suits you. According to the Arthritis Foundation, walking can help improve circulation and bone health, lighten your mood, and help you lose weight.
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3. Take the Stairs
If time is tight, there’s no need to look further than the nearest stairway. Taking the stairs is a quick and effective workout that can strengthen your legs and get your heart pumping. Every time you take a break at work, try fitting in a few flights up and down. You can even increase the challenge by adding lunges or side steps to work different muscle groups. Not only is this convenient, but it’s also a great way to fit exercise into your day without needing extra time or equipment.
4. Join a Fun Fitness Class
If you're looking for structure and variety, joining a fitness class could be the perfect option. Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, spinning, or a High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) class, working out in a group setting can keep you motivated and engaged. The sense of community and accountability from attending regular fitness classes can help you stay consistent and on track. Plus, the variety of workouts will keep things fresh and exciting.
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5. Try a Fun, Low-Impact Workout like Swimming
If you’re looking for a workout that’s gentle on the body, especially after holiday indulgences, swimming is a great option. Not only does it provide a full-body workout, but the water’s buoyancy also reduces pressure on your joints, which is perfect if you’re feeling a bit stiff or sore. Plus, the calm and soothing nature of swimming is ideal for relaxing your mind and easing back into a routine after the holiday buzz. A 2014 study on rats found that swimming may help alleviate depression caused by stress.
6. Try a Quick Office Workout
Are you working from home or spending long hours at a desk? Try a short office workout that you can do right at your workspace. These mini-workouts can include chair squats, desk push-ups, calf raises, or seated leg lifts. You can even set a timer every hour to remind yourself to get up and stretch. Office workouts are simple yet effective ways to engage your muscles, improve circulation, and re-energise your mind for the next task. Plus, they’re discreet enough to fit into any work environment.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]