Working day and night looking after others is a tough gig and one that tends to wear the best of us out. But staying fit is so important not only for our physical health but also for our mental well-being. In this blog, we share five easy exercise ideas for the busy nurse.
1.Walking
Starting with the most oblivious (but also one of the most effective) ways to get exercise every day - yes, we’re talking walking! Whether you get off the bus a few stops early, or take a long stroll after your shift or on your days off, getting those steps in can help improve your heart health, and mental health and help increase cardiovascular fitness. In fact, just 30 minutes of walking a day can significantly improve your overall strength and well-being. We’d recommend getting a Fitbit or digital watch to help you track your steps so you can see how much exercise you’re actually doing and set goals for the long term.
2.YouTube yoga
Thanks to the weird and wonderful world of YouTube you can access a wealth of workout videos from the comfort of your living room. Yoga is a particularly great one if you wish to unwind while getting toned! It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro who owns the entire Lululemon collection, or a complete beginner - there is something for everyone. Just type in ‘yoga workout’ to YouTube and find out for yourself!
3.Running
Running is an easy way to get your heart rate up - plus, it costs nothing! Grab a pair of comfortable trainers (or running shoes if possible) and get out there. If you’re not sure where to start, we would recommend downloading the NHS Couch to 5K app, which will guide you through each run and build up your confidence as a runner over time.
4.Join a gym
Don’t fancy exercising outside in the cold? We don’t blame you…winter in the UK isn’t exactly inspiring when it comes to the weather. However, by joining a gym you can get into a good routine, learn new workouts and go to fitness classes. Plus, most gyms are now open 24 hours, so even if you have an unpredictable work schedule, you’ll still have time to get a sweat on.
5.Hula-hooping!
It might sound a little silly, but hoola-hooping is actually a really effective way to burn calories while having a laugh. Not only is it financially friendly, but you can also do it while watching TV. We’d class that as a win-win.
We hope you found this blog useful. If you’re looking for a new role in nursing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team via email at info@mcmmedical.co.uk or give us a call on 0203 929 4010.
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