Are You Turning Into A Couch Potato?

Couch PoatoeDo you have days, weeks, and sometimes months when you have absolutely no energy to exercise?  Well this may sound a little harsh, but have you turned into a couch potato coming up with different excuses and reasons why you can’t exercise?

Well you’re certainly not alone.

As shift workers we are prone to constant fatigue and tiredness, so the mere thought of getting out and doing some exercise can be the last thing on our minds.

But fortunately (or unfortunately for some, depending on which way you look at it) – it’s absolutely essential that the human body gets some form of exercise or movement.

Exercise by definition is “… any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health”.

You see by exercising, you will become more flexible, stronger and have a lot more energy.

Did someone say more energy?!!

And there is even more good news.

* When you start getting into shape, your self-esteem also increases. You begin to handle things better, and it can even help those who suffer from depression.

* Your relationships with your colleagues, friends and family also improves because you begin to feel so much healthier.

* When you get physically fit – many people find that they begin to get their lives back in shape too.

So don’t wait until you gain 20 kilo’s and your doctor tells you that you MUST exercise. Prevention is the key to good health, and exercise is the key to acquiring more energy.

And considering good health and loads of energy can be a missing link in the life of a shift worker – it’s got to be one of the simplest solutions around.  So go on, switch off the telly and pop on some walking shoes.  Just 15 minutes of movement a day is going to make you feel so much better than if you were to stay on the couch!

Feeling Low On Energy? Then It's Time To Get Your Body Moving Again.

For many shift workers, exercise is a contraband word. In fact, most of us are that bone tired all of the time that just the thought of exercising makes us feel exhausted. However if you’re low on energy, then you need to get your body moving again – and yes this means going for a walk instead of slumping on the couch after work.

You see in order for you to be able to obtain optimum health – you need to give your body plenty of nutritious food AND regular physical exercise.

You simply cannot have one without the other.

And this is why …

  • We are not designed to be in the seated position all day long.
  • Our legs are made for walking and standing.
  • Our arms are designed for movement – not just tapping away on
    a keyboard or lifting a fork.

Not only does moving your body help to tone the muscles, but it also helps improve digestion, absorption, as well as boosting your metabolism.

But wait there’s more! Exercising helps to reduce fatigue – in a big way so you need to get into the mindset of never … not exercising.

Of course if you haven’t done any exercise for a long time, then you shouldn’t sign up for the next triathlon. Just start slowly by going for a walk around your local park or doing a couple of laps in the pool. As your level of fitness improves, so too will your energy.

So find something that you enjoy doing, whether it’s swimming, cycling, aerobics, basketball, tennis, belly dancing or Pilates. It doesn’t matter what it is so long as you get your body moving again. Your fatigue, low energy levels and body will thank you for it.