A while ago we asked you…
“If you could have a book that told you how to do anything, what would you want to know?”
One of the most popular requests was: How can I be a teacher and stay healthy?
So, we asked you for your wisest tips for teachers who are struggling to fit exercise into their day ⏰, and here’s what you said!
1. Get walking
The most popular piece of advice you suggested was to walk! Whether you’re walking to work and back, walking the dog, or getting some fresh air at lunchtime, it all adds up to your step count! 🦶
2. Move in the morning
Sometimes it’s easier to get your exercise out of the way in the morning – and you’ll feel energised for the day ahead. One Tapper said, “Think small. Try skipping for two minutes every day. Just two minutes!”
3. No time in the AM? Do it after school!
Finding the time after school can be difficult, so some of you suggest aiming to leave work earlier a couple of times a week. If you’re exercising from home, do it as soon as you get back…don’t sit down!
You’ve been warned 👀
4. Use school time to exercise
Make the most of your time in school and get those steps in! Walk to the loo furthest away and circulate the classroom. One Tapper said they use ‘laps’ of the classroom as a timer. Tell your students they’ve got ‘3 laps’ to do a task and watch your step count go UP!
5. Find an exercise buddy
Exercising with someone else can keep you motivated. It can be a colleague, family member or even your pet! Grab a teacher friend and head out for a run after work to combat your stresses of the day 🔋
6. Make it suit you
It’s important to make exercise something you look forward to and that easily slots into your average day. YOU suggested a variety of ways to get active including: YouTube, yoga, weighted hula hoop and cleaning.
Remember: It doesn’t always have to be ‘organised’ exercise!
7. Prioritise YOU!
The best way to fit exercise into your teaching day is to physically put it in your calendar. One Tapper said it all: “Prioritise your own health – those books can wait a bit longer, your mental and physical health can’t!”
Want to join 10,000+ teachers today and share your views? Download the app to make your voice count 📲
