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Staying fit can seem impossible with a teacher’s packed schedule, which can make staying fit feel challenging. However, even small amounts of regular movement can improve your energy, focus, and overall health. Here are simple, time-efficient exercises tailored for busy educators.
Quick and Effective Exercises for Teachers
- Chair Stretches
Take advantage of quiet moments during planning periods or between classes to stretch. Focus on your back, neck, and shoulders, as these areas often carry tension. For example, seated forward bends or side stretches can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. - Desk Push-Ups
Strengthen your upper body by using your desk for incline push-ups. Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the desk, step back into a plank position, and lower your chest toward the desk before pushing back up. Perform 10-15 reps for a quick boost. - Step Count Challenges
Increase your daily steps by walking during breaks, lunchtime, or even while supervising students. Set a goal—such as 10,000 steps per day—and use a fitness tracker or app to stay motivated. Adding stairs into your routine can enhance this cardio activity. - Mindful Movement with Yoga
Incorporate yoga poses to relieve tension and improve focus. Start with simple postures like downward dog, child’s pose, or cat-cow stretches. These movements enhance flexibility, calm your mind, and alleviate stress from long periods of standing or sitting. - Wall Sits
While waiting for meetings or the copier, try wall sits. Lean against a wall with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle and hold the position for 20-30 seconds. This exercise strengthens your legs and core. - Stretch Bands or Resistance Workouts
Keep lightweight resistance bands in your desk drawer. Use them for arm or leg workouts during downtime, improving muscle tone and circulation without needing extra space or equipment.
Why Fitness Matters for Teachers
Physical activity isn’t just about staying fit; it’s about improving overall well-being. Regular movement:
- Boosts energy levels, helping you stay alert during long days.
- Improves mood by reducing stress and anxiety.
- Enhances focus and productivity, making you more effective in the classroom.
Staying Consistent with Fitness
The key to maintaining fitness as a busy professional is consistency. Aim for just 10-15 minutes of movement each day. Consider setting reminders on your phone or pairing fitness activities with existing routines, such as stretching during morning coffee or walking while making calls.
Fitness doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By integrating these simple exercises into your daily life, you’ll improve your health, feel more energized, and better manage the demands of teaching.
Consistency is key. Even 10 minutes of movement daily can make a difference.
© Gaynor Clarke, January 2025
Don’t wait to take care of yourself. Your wellbeing matters. Enrol in our course today:
Teacher Wellness First: A Wellbeing Guide for Early Childhood Leadership Success
Gaynor Clarke
B.Ed (Teaching), Cert Tertiary Teaching, PGDip Ed, MEd Leadership
Reach. Teach. Lead.
Reach Education Ltd
Teacher Leadership Mentoring and Life Coaching. Personal and Professional Development.
Gaynor is a teacher educator and mentor facilitating personal & professional leadership wellbeing outcomes for teachers.
If you are an early childhood teacher or leader looking to enhance your leadership skills, I would love to work with you. As a leadership mentor and coach, I specialize in helping early childhood educators develop their leadership potential and make a positive impact for the ākonga they serve. If you are interested in learning more about my leadership mentoring services, please visit my website or contact me directly to schedule a consultation. I would love to work with you!
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