Combining a Work from Home Lifestyle and an Effective Fitness Routine

 

Data from Pew Research shows that about 22 million Americans were working fully remote as of March 2023. Remote work can increase flexibility and underlines benefits such as a boost in productivity for some. But The Hill notes that remote work has been linked to poorer sleep, trouble with relaxation, and mental health concerns, in addition to physical health concerns such as an increased risk of blood clots due to the sedentary nature of the lifestyle. A consistent fitness routine is a great way to combat both the mental and physical health effects of working from home — and the implementation of a solid routine doesn’t have to feel impossible. 

 

 

A home workout zone is a great way to stay motivated to stay active while working from home, and can be easily created. One Better Homes & Gardens article notes that the best location and setup for a home gym or workout zone will depend on your preferred workout style — for example, yoga is best suited to an area with natural lighting and plenty of space for a mat. On the other hand, high-intensity workouts are better suited to an area with plenty of storage space, especially if you have bulky equipment such as a stationary bike, weights, or a treadmill. From there, you’ll be able to carve out the right amount of space for a daily workout area. 

 

A separated, well-defined space can further cement your workout zone as a dedicated area for daily workouts, especially when you’re able to leave out your yoga mat or equipment. Other considerations, such as organization, lighting, and ventilation, can further create a comfortable environment that you will want to workout in on a regular basis. The addition of decor in the form of motivational art or even plants can help. Indoor plants, for instance, may help reduce stress levels, help you recover from illness faster, and may even boost your productivity — not to mention the fact that some indoor foliage can help create a zen space for practices like yoga. 

 

 

Remote and hybrid work arrangements provide millennials (primarily adults in their 30s) with greater flexibility, particularly when it comes to where they choose to settle down. In fact, research from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies found that millennials are leaving big cities in favor of the suburbs. As a result, those who choose to live in the suburbs can prioritize aspirations such as a healthy work-life balance, health and wellness, and personal growth and development. The flexibility of remote work can also provide opportunities for those with growing families to prioritize goals like financial stability. Life in the suburbs can, however, make an active routine more difficult to maintain — especially if you no longer have a gym nearby. While a home workout area can make things easier, the challenges of staying motivated can often remain. 

 

If your plans involve an at-home workout, actually putting time aside can be a major challenge even when your designated fitness zone is right in front of you. Making your workout a priority is key — one great way to stay motivated to get active on a routine basis is to set aside time for a workout session (even if it’s just 15 or 30 minutes). Writing down your intentions in a planner or in a digital calendar can help you carve out a space for the activity. Healthline highlights a number of ways that you can stay motivated, which can be of great help if you’ve lost interest in the standard workout. Workout challenges, for example, can add a competitive edge to your fitness routine, while the integration of new activities will keep things interesting. Periodically changing up your routine is just one suggestion from Healthline, whether you choose to try a new fitness class or head out for a walk when your normal routine gets a bit mundane.

 

 

On days when a full workout routine isn’t possible, natural integrations into your work routine can help make an active lifestyle easier. For example, a walking pad underneath a standing desk can be a great way to become more active while at work. One Time article highlights the fact that one study published in 2023 discovered that the use of a walking pad throughout the workday “improved people’s energy levels, helped them feel less sore, reduced hip and back pain, boosted their mood, and made them feel more focused and creative.” Time also points out that walking pads can be a great way to boost your daily steps, and points out that research suggests that at least 4,000 steps a day can reduce the risk of death from any cause (this includes heart disease). Other integrations can further help promote and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Fitness trackers that encourage you to move throughout the workday, a full water bottle at your desk, and even basic workout tools that can be used at your desk are all great integrations for a naturally active day. 

 

A full-fledged daily fitness routine can seem impossible with a work from home schedule. However, an active lifestyle doesn’t have to take a backseat when remote work becomes the norm — a designated workout zone or ready gym bag, prioritized fitness time, and even natural integrations right at your desk can all be ideal and simple ways to stay active.

 

If you need to get out of the house, TAC has everything you need. From classes, to athletic training, to personal training to an amazing gym full of great equipment!