IMGCAP(1)] One of the only reasons I am writing for you today is because the accounting world finally awoke to the importance of physical well being and health and how it translates into workplace productivity.
Just look at the increasing number of gyms that crowd street corners like Starbucks.
In theory, this should help accountants offset the harmful effects of desk-related work and stay productive. In reality, gyms are places that provide the tools necessary for health and well being. Its the application of those tools that determines whether or not they help accountants offset workplace risksprimarily posture managementand provide foundations for increased efficiency. The hard reality to swallow is that many common fitness trends may be hindering performance and exacerbating the problems fitness was designed to solve in the first place.
The Infamous Spin Class
One of the most popular choices for exercising for gym goers, spin class may actually be exacerbating problematic issues created by the typical accounting workplace. One of the worst aspects of accounting work is the prolonged hours of sitting down. Yet, spin class involves an hour of what accountants already do for hours on end at work: sitting.
Machine Based Exercises
Once again, accountants that choose to use machines in the gym get right back into the seated position that causes problematic issues. Movement patterns become dysfunctional, postural issues arise, and eventually the path towards pain is paved. Instead, accountants should utilize free motion and functional training methods that require the accountant to use every muscle in their body with each exercise and avoid seated positions. After all, sitting seems to be the recurring theme that needs to be avoided.
Mirror Workouts
Most people follow what I call the Mirror Workout program. It involves working on the muscles that are seen in the mirror. Next time you visit the gym, pay close attention to the percentage of people that are working their chests, biceps, and quads at any given moment.Chances are this percentage is very high. This is also detrimental to posture. When the chest and biceps are overworked, they become tight and pull the shoulders done and inward, forcing the body into a compromised posture that eventually leads to pain. By simply working and focusing on the muscles not seen in the mirrorback, glutes, and hamstringsaccountants can make their time in the gym productive.
LukeSniewski currently works as a CPA as well as a fitness consultant. He works byweaving the health and wellness world with the business professional world.Working with companies and business professionals, his organization, LEAF,provides CPE courses that aim to improve the overall quality of life throughthe implementation of proactive lifestyles. Visit www.leaflifestyle.com formore details.
