How to go From Workout to Work!

Published February 5, 2017

Ever wondered how some people manage to fit exercise in before work, and look calm and ready to go at 9 a.m.? Set that early alarm, arm your body with a healthy breakfast and read our tips for runners, walkers and cyclists.

If you’re a runner…

Run well. Get the right sneakers to suit your gait – with the wrong ones, you could end up injured. Specialist stores will assess your running style and advise you on the right shoes.

Pack smart. You’ll have to pack your work outfit, so invest in a good bag that won’t bounce around when you run. Put the heaviest things at the bottom so your lower back supports it.

Stay on top. Treat yourself to a running top that’s light but will keep you warm and dry. Try a material like microfibre.

Lighten up. Get travel sizes of toiletries and a small towel to keep weight down. Don’t carry your whole bathroom cabinet!

If you’re a city walker…

Stabilize your hips. A swing in your step may look sexy, but it does nothing for your spine or the firmness of your bottom. Stabilize your hips by imagining that you have a glass of champagne on each of them and that you have to keep the glasses full as you walk.

Walk tall. Combat rounded shoulders by lifting your neck to create as much distance as possible between your shoulders and your ear lobes.

Appreciate your arms. Your walking speed comes from your arms - try swinging them faster and your legs will automatically move more quickly.

If you’re a cyclist…

Just get started. You don’t need a fancy bike. Use what you have; you can upgrade later.

Invest in a good base layer. Go for breathable fabrics such as merino wool.

Get the accessories right. A scarf will keep your neck warm, protect your hair from wind and combat hat hair when worn under a helmet. Arm warmers will add warmth and double up as gloves.

Keep dry. If it’s raining, consider wearing thick tights or leggings and a dress rather than jeans or trousers, as you’ll find they dry far more quickly.

Stay visible. Wearing bright clothing will make you more visible, a cycle bell is good for warning pedestrians, and LED bike lights are inexpensive and very useful.