As part of the “no TV” kick that i’m currently embarking on, I’ve been pleased to find out that i have a little more time for exercise and working out. I used to be a massive devotee of the gym, yoga, dance class, anything that would get me moving, and get the endorphins flowing. But the stress of recent months has taken its toll on my body and on my health, and the gym has been a sad casualty of that.

But how to find time to exercise when your work hours don’t really allow? For me, the optimal time to work out would be in the morning, but with an 8:00am office start every day, it would be testing the boundaries in a big way to get up even earlier than i already do. Especially while it’s still cold and dark outside… And by the time the work day usually ends, i’m usually wiped. Would a lunchtime work out slot do the trick? Maybe, but not really feasible given my daily schedule.

The solution? Well, i can’t pretend to have it licked, but I’ve experimented over the last week with getting to work a full 30 minutes early. This is easier than getting up 60-90 minutes early in order to work out at the gym, believe me! And those first 30 minutes can be really productive. Often disproportionately so. Coupled with taking my own healthier lunch to work, it means i can be more focused during the day, and leave on time (when i can), to make it to the gym at a more reasonable hour. 6:30pm say, rather than 7:30 or 8:00pm. My energy level is just about still high enough, and i can work out before enjoying the rest of the evening, as well as checking in on any urgent emails.

I’m only two days in so far, and i can’t pretend it will work every day, but so far, i’m enjoying the slight change of pace. The best work/life balance experts tell you that finding your own rhythm is an important facet of being productive. Make the most of your best hours, whether it’s for work or play. I happen to power through work in the mornings, while my own energy levels dip a little toward the end of the day, so i’d rather re-charge by going to the gym instead of lagging behind at my desk, night after night. Like anyone, i’ll pull the hours when i need to, (12 hour plus days have definitely been my friend in the past!), but for right now, this is working for me. Will keep you posted on my progress!