Clever Strategies to Prevent Weight Gain While Writing Remotely
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Chapter 1: Acknowledging the Challenge
Gaining weight can be a real struggle, especially when working remotely. It's tough to meet the World Health Organization's guideline of 420 minutes of physical activity per week. If you can relate, you might be tired of sacrificing your health for the sake of comfort.
Section 1.1: The Power of Fitness Classes
Signing up for a fitness class can provide both motivation and accountability. As Denise Austin puts it, "Joining a fitness class is like having a personal trainer and a cheering squad all in one."
After work, I often found myself sinking into the couch, too lethargic to even take a walk. To combat this, I enrolled in salsa lessons that begin at 7 p.m. Since then, I’ve attended 20 out of 22 classes this month—better than any gym attendance in over a decade. Two key reasons motivate me:
- The fixed schedule keeps procrastination at bay.
- The cost of the classes encourages me to show up.
Section 1.2: Creating a Productive Workspace
My workspace used to be a significant obstacle to my health.
I frequently wandered into the kitchen, snacking aimlessly when I wasn't even hungry. This habit resulted in me devouring an entire month's worth of snacks in just 10 days. To counter this, I've positioned my workspace as far from the kitchen as possible, minimizing distractions.
Subsection 1.2.1: Meal Prepping for Success
To combat mindless snacking, I turned to meal prepping. This practice began during my college years when takeout was too expensive. Meal prepping has proven to be one of the most valuable lessons I've learned, allowing me to stay on track with my diet.
Section 1.3: Investing in Your Workspace
At the beginning of the year, I made a significant investment in my workspace.
Most of my previous setup contributed to a sedentary lifestyle. If you're experiencing something similar, consider purchasing a standing desk and a walking pad. The walking pad acts like a budget-friendly treadmill, allowing you to walk while working. Although it may not be ideal for focused writing, it’s perfect for tackling mundane tasks like responding to emails.
Section 1.4: Rethinking Breaks
Taking breaks shouldn't mean indulging in snacks.
I utilize the Pomodoro technique, ensuring that my 5-minute breaks are spent as far from the kitchen as possible. Instead, I engage in stretching and walking while listening to music. This routine has proven refreshing and energizing, unlike the lethargy that accompanies lounging on the couch.
Chapter 2: The Journey to Self-Improvement
Hello, I’m Adrian! A couple of years ago, I embarked on a journey toward my ideal self. As I continue to grow, I aim to share my experiences through my blog on Medium. Any support along the way would be greatly appreciated—let’s strive to be one percent better every day!