Everyone who commutes to work in London knows that finding time to exercise is challenging. Many people have journeys to work that take an hour or more, on multiple forms of transport, which makes it difficult to motivate oneself to plan a workout. All you want to do once you get home is lay down, eat, or watch television – something to relax and take your mind off the stress of work.
This rationale is completely understandable. But, exercise has a lot of energy boosting health benefits that complement working life. Now, this article isn’t about convincing you to workout. You’re here because you want to, but think you don’t have time. This article is all about how you can fit getting some exercise into your commute to and from work. Learn some tips and tricks with our guide below.
Plan #1: On the Tube
This plan is specifically for those who take the tube to and from work. The tube can secretly be a great way to get some exercise.
Instead of racing for the nearest free seat next time you get the tube, choose to stand. By doing this, you’re working out your core and leg muscles. Try to focus on your breath as you stand in the moving carriage, and feel the heat in your core. It’s important to stay rooted. You can also hold onto the rails (though it’s recommended to disinfect them first) in order to get some arm work as well.
As well as working on your core and your posture, riding the tube is a great way to do some stretches. You can do this in a fairly empty carriage, if you’re lucky enough to get one, or on a platform while you wait for a tube. This helps boost your metabolism, plus stretching releases endorphins.
Before and after your ride, it’s time to hit those stairs. Don’t cheat and take the escalator – or if you do, take the walking side. The stairs work your glutes, legs, and mind without using up extra time doing squats.
Plan #2: Walking
If you walk to work (lucky you!) why not get there faster by running, jogging or power walking? A brisk walk is a great form of exercise already, but you can ramp it up by putting an extra spring in your step.
If you don’t feel like turning up at work soaking with sweat, pack your running gear in your backpack so you can change at the office and run home. Running or jogging strengthens muscles, builds strong bones, improves your cardiovascular health, and aids weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight.
Break out your running shoes and race home from work tomorrow!
Plan #3: Cycling
London is packed with cyclists. Cycling is eco-friendly, fast, and a great form of exercise. If cycling is part of your commute already, well done! If not, getting a bicycle is a great way to work fitness into your journey.
Cycling improves your joint mobility, bone health, mindset, muscle strength, and much more. Some workplaces even incorporate a cycle to work scheme for their employees, offering safe places to store bikes and free bike maintenance. Ask at your workplace whether they have a scheme like this in place or if they would consider one.
Ditch the tube for good and get a bicycle instead. Don’t forget your helmet!
Sign Up to Embody Fitness
Embody Fitness London is conveniently located in central London, just five minutes from Bank station. We’re also just a short walk from St. Paul’s, Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations – perfect to drop into on your commute to or from work.
Sign up for Embody Fitness today alongside switching up your commute, and before long you’ll notice a significant change in your health and mindset.
