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Health & Fitness

Why Is It Hard To Stay Healthy With A Teacher's Schedule?

Let's take a look at some of the biggest reasons why it's so hard for teachers to lose weight and how you can go about overcoming it.

If you're a teacher, you likely don't need me to tell you it's a struggle to lose weight and stay in shape. 

More and more teachers are battling a weight problem, and even though they have the desire to get fit and drop their excess weight, it still seems to plague them as time goes on.

Let's take a look at some of the biggest reasons why it’s so hard for teachers to lose weight and how you can go about overcoming it.

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Lack of Time

The very first reason why it can seem like a real challenge to get in shape and lose any excess weight is because you simply don't have time.  Between grading papers, preparing exams and planning your lessons, every free moment you have in your day is all filled up.

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Your “free” time is spent catching up on housework and fulfilling other obligations. Many teachers tend to put themselves and their own interests aside to focus on those of their family, friends and students.

This leaves very little left for planning and executing a regular workout program, so there's no wonder why you haven't been able to stay in shape!

If time is one of the biggest barriers for you, it's time to look at what you can do to work with your busy schedule rather than letting it control you.

Exercise While You Grade

The first thing you should consider is grading papers while you exercise.  A stationary bike is a great way to workout while grading! 

It may get some getting used to at first and you definitely won't be cycling at full intensity, but at least you will be getting some physical activity and help you to burn a few extra calories.

Make The Most Of Shorter Bouts

Second, remember that you don't necessarily have to put in a full hour long workout for it to be effective.  Just 10 to 20 minutes of “high intensity interval training” can be much more effective than a long and boring jog on the treadmill! The workout later in this guide is a great example!

Make Family Time Activity Time

If it's family time that's pulling you away from exercising, make family time a more active time! 

Take your kids on a bike ride or go play Frisbee in a local park.  By having more “active” family time and lessening the more sedentary activities like watching TV, you’ll not only be teaching your family the importance of an active lifestyle, but you will also be getting in your exercise!

It's very true that today's teachers are busier than ever.  Finding the time to maintain a healthy exercise program to lose weight and stay in shape can be overwhelming.  Hopefully the few tips mentioned above can help you to overcome those obstacles to getting fit!

Start with a game plan that will work with your schedule, and you will be a lot closer to seeing the results that you are looking for!

Ryan Bate runs the South County Adventure Boot Camp for Women. For more info, click here.

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