The Other Shift – Real Shift Work Advice

Shift workers, are you sick of having to wipe down somebody else’s sweat marks on the gym equipment? Are you frustrated with your headphones because they keep falling out while you're running on the treadmill? Do the big egos and manic personalities strutting around the gym irritate and distract you? I get it. Here is my simple solution to your gym problems. Work out at home! I know what you’re thinking; there are too many distractions at my place! I do agree, there is always washing to be folded, cleaning to be done and chores strangely become appealing while holding the plank position in the lounge. But being aware of these distractions prior to your workout is key. Exercising at home is a secret gem for me as a shift worker because it saves so much time, money and requires little preparation. Completing a solid workout can be tough after a long shift. But by simply using the resources in and around your home like the staircase or canned fruit in the pantry, you can get it done despite a busy roster. Benefits to a Home Workout for Shift Workers 1. No travel time This saves on gas, finding a car park and wear and tear on your car 2. Money saver It's free! Simply download your favorite fitness and exercise apps or instructional Youtube videos for exceptional choice and variety. Much cheaper than a gym membership! 3. Wear what you like Pjamas, no shoes, bad sports bra and you can forget about the G-string 4. Bad hair day Who cares? 5. Avoid extreme weather Escape the snow, hail, rain or sweltering heat when running from the car park into the gym 6. You dictate your own routine Gym closed for renovations or a snow day? No worries. 7. Protein snacks are only a few feet away 8. Play your own music loud No need to worry about your headphones falling out or where to put your phone if you don’t have a pocket. Play your music or virtual exercise/yoga instructor as loud as you want. 9. Variety There are options galore outside the gym walls! Walking, design your own circuit training, bike riding, yoga, pilates, skipping, stair climbs and so much more. I've even used the cans in the kitchen cupboard, heavy textbooks, and even bottles of wine for weights 10. Make noise Loud grunts or victorious cries of struggle and success can be as loud as you want. Your pet is the only one judging you and I can tell you, they are very impressed with your efforts. 11. No babysitter required For the parents juggling kid life and shift work, exercising at home can save money on the babysitter. You'll just need to keep the little ones occupied for 30 minutes or so (which I am sure is not always that easy!). 12. Your sweat is your own No need to wipe down your sweat marks on the equipment for the next lucky person Related post: Manual Labor vs The Gym. What Approach Wins in the Real World? 13. Invite your friends around Laugh, giggle and push each other to succeed without the watchful, judging eyes of the gym goers 14. No waiting time No need to wait in line or linger around your favorite exercise machine 15. Finally, avoid sweaty, head-phone wearing people Your home gym, lounge or yard is your special place. Invite your friends and family to join in or simply enjoy the time alone. Make this area all you need it to be, by moving furniture, adjusting the lights and positioning the kitchen chair ready for those step-ups. Summary: 15 Key Reasons For Shift Workers To Ditch The Gym and Exercise At Home. The key above all else, is for us shift workers to find time for exercise and fit it in. If you are like Dan and enjoy the atmosphere, equipment and variety the gym offers, then stick with it. But, if you find yourself in a fitness rut and need a change, try exercising at home. It will save you time, money and you may even surprise yourself how much you enjoy mixing up your routine with an abundance of Youtube videos and exercise apps. What do you think about exercising at home? What strategies do you use to block out the distractions? If you liked this article about exercise for shift workers, you may also like reading Top 5 Exercise Tips For The Time Poor Shift Worker and Cheers, Also, for the shift workers wondering how to actually find time exercise, this video will be very helpful! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zgHQTqZg6U&t=4s

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