Q: I work about 50 to 55 hours per week and have found that there is simply no time (during the week) to hit the gym.
What can I do to keep in shape while dealing with the rigors of a ten-hour workday? A: Many people have long workdays which prevent them from hitting the gym during that dreaded Monday through Friday span.
A few solutions: This one's on the boss.
Talk to your boss and, if logistically feasible, see about getting him to sponsor some sort of employee fitness program.
Many gyms will offer discounts to groups, and many companies will often pay for it, as it is cheaper to pay a $20 monthly membership fee, than cover the costs of decades of long-term health care costs of an obese employee with health problems.
Additionally, many intelligent managers realize that fit employees will work harder, faster, and project a healthier, more vibrant image for the workplace Park in the furthest parking spots.
As long as you're not facing any extreme weather (blizzard or rainstorm), parking in the back of the lot has some serious advantages.
That extra 3 minutes of brisk walking everyday gives your system a nice metabolic boost before entering the long (and often sedentary) workplace for a long shift.
Use your feet.
Most people spend those 15-minute breaks at the water cooler gossiping, or outside smoking.
Instead, use that time for a nice 15 minute power-walk.
Chances are you could make it around the block once or twice.
When everyone returns to their desk, you'll be refreshed and alert, while they're coughing off a cigarette or shaking off the doughnut crumbs.
Train isometrically.
Every time you enter the restroom stall, flex your biceps and triceps, ten reps apiece.
Flex your quads quietly as you wait in line.
Do calf raises at your desk.
While you won't be adding significant muscle mass by doing this, you'll keep the mind-muscle connection alive, and allow your existing muscle to receive a nice protein-rich blood influx.
Realize that as an employee, you are required to do tasks X, Y, and Z for your employer on a daily basis.
If you are stretching your calves while doing so, and it doesn't affect your job performance whatsoever, then go for it.
You might encounter some heckling from co-workers who don't understand the importance of periodic cardio for metabolic function.
You might encounter strange looks from colleagues who can't comprehend it when you try to explain the concept of flooding nutrients to a muscle group in order to keep it nourished.
So don't bother.
Save your energy for resting, training, and getting your job done so you can get home and train!