Back by popular demand is Patty Dietz, my go to gal for exercise tips and questions. I asked Patty to comment on what the physical effects were on you if you are all work and no play. I have to say I am more motivated to get my butt off the chair and move around thanks to Patty’s advice.  Hope it motivates you as well.

DON’T’ SKIP THE EXERCISE!
By Patty Dietz, MS Exercise Physiologist

These days, most everybody is spending more time working and having to eliminate other activities from their schedules. However, choosing to not exercise to make more time for work can be counterproductive. An effective and regular exercise program can actually enhance your work and the lack thereof can do the opposite. Let me go through some of the reasons:

• Lower levels of stress
• Decreases episodes of sickness
• Lower severity of sickness
• More energy, less fatigue
• Better sleep habits
• Clearer cognition
• Lower risk of chronic condition
• Improved stamina
• Decreased risk of injury
• Improved self esteem/self-image

The effects of exercise as listed above (and this is not necessarily a complete list) all lead to greater productivity, with less time engaged in work activities! And consider the reverse of each item on the list, they all add up to a negative for your work accomplishments.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends accumulating at least 30 minutes of activity on most days to experience healthful benefits. This time does not have to be all at once, three blocks of 10 minutes sessions each day will do the trick. Just be sure the activity is continuous for the time period and involves rhythmic, large muscle movements.

Patty Dietz owns Health Fitness Specialists, an Exercise Physiology Practice offering exercise solutions and workout make-overs. For more information, go to her website: www.healthfitnessspecialists.com or email her at: pdietz@healthfitnessspecialists.com.