Teachers Help Us Every Step of the Way

If you’re a teacher, congratulations and thank you! The world relies on you now more than ever. You make a huge difference in your students’ lives. You also positively affect your whole community. Everything from enriching to protecting our children’s lives falls on your shoulders. Somehow you manage to do it all which is why you are one of our most valuable resources.

Shouldering so much responsibility can be difficult and stressful. In today’s world, staying healthy needs to be a top priority. We hope you don’t forget to take care of the most important person of all: you!

Why Is Physical Activity Important?

The Greek physician, Herophilos, once said: “Without health and fitness, wealth is without value, knowledge is useless, art cannot become manifest, and music cannot be played.”

As an educator, you are probably stretched to the limit in so many ways. It may be difficult to find the time and energy to work out. But is it necessary to? Physical activity can prevent disease and lengthen your life. It also greatly benefits the quality of your life. Working out improves your heart and lung health. It also increases your muscle strength, mobility and endurance. You will have more energy to tackle your hectic schedule, and a sunnier disposition.

Not only does exercise benefit your body, but it also builds brain power. Physical activity increases blood flow to your brain. It improves memory, executive function and spatial processing. It also boosts the production of new neurons. Working out relieves stress, lowers the risk of depression and improves your outlook. Being active gives you the stamina to tackle the rigorous demands of your profession.

How Much Exercise Do I Need?

At least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise, and two or more strength training sessions, per week is recommended. But even ten minutes of moderate exercise can have a positive impact on your body and mind. Strength training helps you build lean muscle so you can burn more calories even while you sleep. Aerobic exercise is great for your heart, lungs and brain. A combination of the two is ideal for overall health and weight maintenance.

Top Ten Fitness Tips for Teachers

1. Prioritize your self-care by scheduling your workouts in your calendar as you would an appointment. Then keep the promises you make to yourself!
2. Lead by example by incorporating Energy Boosts or Brain Breaks in your classroom. Try a set or two of jumping jacks, crunches or push ups. You can motivate your students and they can motivate you. They will be better able to focus and enjoy the rest of the class, and so will you.
3. If possible walk or bike to work. If not, try parking a little further away or start a walking club. Take the stairs whenever possible (even if you don’t need to go up or down!)
4. Pack a healthy lunch and snacks, and a water bottle, so you can stay well nourished and hydrated.
5. Use a fitness tracker to track your recommended 10,000 steps a day.
6. Meal prep on the weekend so you always have a quick and healthy meal on hand. Make the healthy options the most convenient ones to fuel your day.
7. Get seven to nine hours of quality sleep a night. Try unwinding with a good book or meditation practice.
8. Eat lots of veggies and make sure you get plenty of protein with all your meals.
9. If you have the summer off, use it to start or revitalize your fitness routine. Try different types of exercise so you have a variety of options once the school year begins.
10. Train with one of our Golden Home Fitness Personal Trainers. We can customize the perfect plan for you. We will schedule your workouts, teach you proper form, hold you accountable and motivate you every step of the way. The Golden Home Fitness difference is that we give you lots of options. We can come to you if you prefer to work out at home. You can come to our studio at 30 School Street in North Andover…or you can train with us virtually (on your laptop or phone) using our fitness app. This allows you to find time in your busy schedule. It also takes all the guesswork out of where to start. Best of all, your first in-person or virtual Personal Training Session is complimentary and you can schedule it right here.

The Takeaway

The world needs great teachers now more than ever. Some of the most valuable lessons we have ever learned have come from you. You have inspired, motivated and taught us so much. Your chosen profession is among the most difficult but it can also be the most rewarding. When you are busy taking care of everyone else, please don’t forget to prioritize your own self-care. Investing in your health and wellness is the key to being and feeling your best. And when you feel your best you do your best.  We wish you a happy and healthy summer season!

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Neamb.com; edutopia.org; www.graduateprogram.org; teachbetter.com; wellesleyps.org