It's fairly well known that a lot of writers struggle with their weight. At least, even if this is isn't documented, it's something that I've noticed over the years. I'm starting to think that it may not only be common to writers, but common to creative people in general, including of course crafters. So, what's the problem?
For me, there are multiple problems, most of which I don't want to go into. But I think one of the biggest problems is that creative people who work at home tend to sit at a desk, or sit on the couch, for long hours and rarely exercise, not because they don't want to, but because either they genuinely don't have the time, or they have convinced themselves they don't have the time. After all, if you have a $150 order to fill in three days, you need to sew all day and you can't justify a long, leisurely walk in the park. However, there is hope.
Running is not fun. Long walks (and I mean 4-6 miles) have always been my preferred method of burning off the excess pounds. But it's occurred to me lately that there is one major advantage to running and jogging that you absolutely can not get from walking: it hardly takes any time. You can burn off the same number of calories in 30 minutes of jogging that would require over an hour of walking. And better yet, you can jog in your house.
Jog in place, and all you need is a pair of good sneakers. No other equipment required. Do some stretching to warm up, turn on the TV, grab a water bottle, and you're good to go. Time yourself for 30 minutes--use a stop watch so you can take breathers whenever you need to. Contrary to popular belief, resting while exercising will not cause you to burn fewer calories. Your heart rate will stay up for a long time after you finish anyway, so even when you complete your routine you are still burning calories at a higher rate than when you haven't exercised at all.
Don't forget to stretch while you cool down. From what I read, the aftermath stretches are far more important. On more than one occasion I have been subject to severely sore calf muscles for two or three days after a run because I neglected to stretch. Not cool.
Multi tasking is something we creative people are used to already. So, why not pop in a favorite DVD and get a move on? I'm watching an episode of Charmed today. Remember, it only takes 30 minutes of your time. If you want, start slow and try 20 minutes a day until you can handle more.
Happy jogging!
Very interesting post! I am an online seller for a little over two years now. I have noticed an increase of weight in myself and its all because of what you stated above. I use to be very active and now its taking its toll and I am not liking it! I am glad to know that I'm not the only one who struggles. I need to do something...jogging, I don't know, may not be for me...but maybe dancing would...LOL :)
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