Last week I talked about how spring had sprung and now was the time to get back on track at the office.  That means refocusing efforts and paying attention to the right priorities for your firm.  And while setting goals and managing key deliverables is critical for business success, it is just as important to set personal goals – especially as it relates to physical health.

One of the best ways to get fit and healthy is to GET MOVING!   For many of us, it is hard to balance career success with self.   Finding the time to make it to Yoga class or work in that evening run is sometimes a challenge.   But experts agree you don’t need a gym membership to burn calories.  Here are a few easy tips and tricks on how you can work in a work out without ever leaving the office.

1. Stairs.   Skip the elevator and tackle the stairs.  According to LiveStrong.com, the vigorous movement of your legs and hips results in deeper breathing which increases your heartbeat.  Your body releases endorphins during a stair climb, so you’ll feel better and have less tension.  Doctors also recommend stair climbing as an ideal way to improve your energy, increase the function of your immune system and lower your risk for things such as diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and heart disease.
2. Walk.  Weather is sometimes one of the big deterrents for getting outside and moving.  I must say, having our Creative Choice office in Florida and our Etech Global Services team in Texas offers our staff fairly warm weather conditions year round. As a result our employees are active and take advantage of walking both at work and during our community service events all around the area.  However, for those that are in colder parts of the country, walking inside the building is just as effective.   You can take a call on your cell phone while doing laps around the office.  Walking for 30 minutes a day is recommended but it does not have to be all at once.  You can easily work in a few 10 minute jaunts around the office to boost you energy, get your heart rate up and burn some calories. Finding a walking buddy is another excellent way to reinforce your commitment and keep one another on track.
3. Stretch.  One of the easiest things you can do is work in some basic stretches while sitting at your desk.  And while you may opt to bring in a few light hand weights to pump your biceps between calls, you don’t need any real equipment to take advantage of good stretching.  Leaning against the wall, using your chair or just raising your hands high above your head are easy ways to reduce tension, relax muscles and get lean in the process.  Using good breathing techniques are also important.  Especially if you are working on difficult problems, solving customer disputes or navigating through the details of a company law suit.

So remember, fitting in a fitness routine does not have to be hard work.  Get moving at the office and make your personal well-being a priority this spring.