Remote work is becoming more popular as both business owners and employees recognize the perks, like saving money and boosting productivity. But it does have its downsides—working from home can mean putting in longer hours because it’s hard to separate work from personal time and you might sit in front of the computer too long, missing out on physical activities.
If you’re looking to strike a balance and get fitter both physically and mentally, keep reading.
Every gym has an elliptical machine, and it’s often thought to be a boring workout. However, that’s not true. This exercise can really get your heart pumping, making it a great cardio workout that also engages most of your muscles, including your arms and legs. But to get the full benefits, you need to use it correctly.
Think of the elliptical as a mix of a Stairmaster and a treadmill. It allows you to do different activities like running, walking, jogging, and climbing, adjusting the intensity as you go. It’s gentler on your joints—hips, knees, and ankles—because it doesn’t have the harsh impact of running on pavement.
The low-impact nature of the elliptical makes it suitable for everyone, whether you’re new to exercising or overweight. Plus, an elliptical workout can fit into your day easily, even if the weather is bad or you’re waiting for a business call.
Exercise generally improves brain function. Studies show that aerobic activities like using an elliptical can boost memory, enhance concentration, improve mental health, and increase creativity. If you find yourself stuck on a problem, a quick workout might get your brain working in new ways.
Despite advances in technology, education, and more, our physical activity levels have dropped. We spend a lot of time in cars or public transport and eat many meals sitting at our desks. An elliptical machine could change that. It’s easy to own and use, regardless of your current fitness level, and it allows you to work out conveniently—before or after work, or even for a few minutes throughout the day. Just 20 minutes of elevating your heart rate daily can aid weight loss.
To maximize your elliptical workout, focus on it and avoid distractions like your phone, ideally separating your workout space from your workspace. But if you need to multitask, the elliptical can make it easier. You can concentrate more on your legs while reading or go hands-free to take a conference call or listen to a podcast.
You can also integrate the elliptical into a productivity routine, such as working for 55 minutes and then spending five minutes on the machine each hour. This keeps you active, maintains your productivity, and helps you concentrate better on your tasks.
If you don’t want to spend on a gym membership and can only get one piece of equipment for your home gym, the elliptical is a smart choice. It helps in losing weight, staying active, and sparking creativity, making it easier to stay healthy while working from home.