It is no news that an increasing number of people work behind a desk, staring at the computer, or driving around for 8 hours per day. The first job that I ever held was a cashier’s position at a grocery store. Very quickly, I came to dislike it because I was standing for several hours at the time, sometimes the entire day. At that time, I wished I had a comfortable job sitting at a desk. The issue is that sitting for several hours per day staring at a screen can have a negative impact on your lifestyle and health.
It is important to move around throughout the day and walk away from a desk and computer. It is even more beneficial for you to incorporate exercise in your lifestyle. You will find that your stress levels will decrease as you become more active physically and mentally. However, there is a caveat. If you haven’t noticed, fitness and healthy habits are a big market and when you don’t learn to control your impulses, you may end up spending exorbitant amounts of money to stay healthy. Truly, it does not have to be so expensive.
This summer, let’s find ways to destress and get fit along the way. Time is often an excuse; however, 10 minutes of exercise on a regular basis can go a long way. Here are a few ways to destress after your hard work at the job.
Swimming
Swimming doesn’t only release stress, but it also allows you to use your entire body and several groups of muscles. And when it comes to your brains, swimming may make you smarter. With summer in full swing, it is the best time to take advantage of the season. Pools are open, communities are outside; make friends, de-stress and get healthier while doing it. Engaging in this healthy habit does not have to break the bank. If you already have a gym membership, make sure you take advantage of the pool if the facility has one.
I recently heard that one of the best truck driver fitness tips is to practice swimming. It is definitely recommended for the rest of us who sit at a desk all day. Even if you do not have a sedentary job, it would be beneficial to your health. So, go swim this weekend and see the difference.
Cycling
I recently became interested in cycling and particularly in spin cycle classes. Unfortunately, the gym I am a member of offers them at times when I am sleeping or at work. So, I decided to do some homework and found out that spin bikes are not that expensive. For less than $300, you can invest into a tool that will get you healthier and active. If you only pay $30 per month for your gym membership, you could save about $60.
You could bike to work every now and then, weather permitting and get your exercise time in that way. The key point to remember is that destress and being fit is inexpensive and good for your health. A small change in your morning routine may have big impact.
Grab a racket (or racquet)
With less than $100, you can be on the courts playing tennis tomorrow. I grew up playing the sport and I love hitting the ball with a good opponent today. It is one of the best ways to get a decent cardio exercise and work your muscles as well. Many people avoid the sport because they feel uncoordinated. Keep in mind that everything takes practice to get to a mastery level so do not be intimated. In fact, find a wall and play against it. 30 minutes later, you will have had an excellent workout. As an entrepreneur in the making in the making, being comfortable playing sport may be profitable to you. Just like golf, tennis can be useful for your networking efforts.
Hiking
If you simply can’t find any time during the week to take a step back from your busy routine, make sure you are getting some exercise during the weekend. You can pick a destination, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and explore some of the natural parks nearby. Into water sports? Gather your friends and family members on a kayak tour or learn paddle boarding. Get some fresh air and return to the office on Monday relaxed and rejuvenated.
As I said in previous posts, being in a healthy shape is important and it does not require large investment. In fact, you can get healthy without stepping into a workout facility or using any machine. It is a personal decision and I recommend that you brainstorm today. Find activities to enjoy, include exercise and community and have fun.
***This article is in partnership with a guest writer, or a brand, or a company and may contain affiliate links. Nonetheless, these are my experiences and my opinion. For questions, contact me directly here.
Money-Smart Millennials 
These are all great suggestions! Since I live in an apartment complex, I have year-round access to a pool, but I rarely go. You have definitely made me want to start going more. Living in southern Texas means there are few months when it’s too cold to use the pool. We do go biking from time to time. San Antonio has a lot of nice bike trails. When I was in Pensacola, I had a group of friends that I played tennis with once a week. It was so much fun. We never learned any of the actual rules. The one rule was you had to hit it over the net and not over the fence – it didn’t even have to be the same net haha. Sometimes we would end up three courts down because we were so bad at aiming. It was a great workout though – lots of sprinting. I kind of miss it.
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