How to Work a Workout Into Your Workday

Disclaimer: I am excited to bring you this post from Athleta with information on their new fashion line geared toward women who want to stay active and look professional. This is a sponsored post; however, all opinions are my own.

Honestly? Going to the gym is not my idea of a good time. I can overlook the fact that I am actually at the gym if I take a fun class, but working out at a gym isn’t my ideal way to stay active. When I lived in NYC, the city used to be my gym. It was easy to stay fit while walking from place to place, running down stairs to catch the subway, and even occasionally renting a bike to get around. However, in Los Angeles, things are quite different. When you tell people you’re going to walk somewhere, they look at you like you are nuts!

Staying active with my busy schedule is a balancing act, as there are only so many hours in the day. In this sprawling, automobile-dominated city, going for a midday hike and getting home in time to shower and make it to my next appointment is not an option. So I have to get creative! I’ve found ways to incorporate physical activity into my everyday life without hassle or inconvenience, and I’ve made simple tweaks to my routine and style to keep my body moving without hitting the treadmill.

How I Stay Active

I finally decided that I don’t care if people think I am crazy: I am a New Yorker at heart, and New Yorkers walk! Especially now that the hot days of summer are behind us, I hit the pavement during the day as much as I can. I live in a central location, so I walk to nearby meetings or jog to the closest rental scooter and ride it to my appointment.

On days when I am not working from home, I ditch my skinny jeans and put on something more comfortable to move around in. I recently discovered the Athleta line of commuter-friendly fashion, and I love that it is both comfortable and stylish. The lycra material has enough give to move with me while still allowing me to appear structured and professional.

Ways to Get In a Workout During the Day

Looking for ways to boost your physical activity without hitting the gym? You can be like me and try walking or jogging around the city and hopping on a scooter to get around. If that is not your speed, here are some other ideas to stay active throughout your workweek:

• Park at the back of the lot. Want to get your step counter cranking? Stop driving around looking for a close parking space! Park in the back and walk—it’s as simple as that!
• Take the stairs. Generally found right next to the elevator, the stairs are the perfect way to work on your gluts without doing squats.
• Midday yoga. You don’t have to go to a proper studio to get your namaste on! If you work from home or in a small office, find a secluded space for some midday stretching. This will increase your blood flow while helping to break up the day.
• Bike to the office. Leave the car in the driveway and put on that helmet! If you have a short commute or live in a metropolitan area, biking to the office is a great way to squeeze in a cardio set before work.

No matter how you stay active as a professional, comfort and style are key. You don’t want to show up at work looking like you were on your way to or from the gym. Shop my look here and join me, I am challenging myself this month to #WorkInYourWorkout by trying these new ways be more active during your workweek. You too can find ways to get away from your desk and get moving!

How do you stay active during the workweek? Share your tips and suggestions in the comments below.

Stay fabulous,