When I was employed alongside others in active work roles, it always amazed me that some people would come up with all sorts of creative ways to get out of physical work, but then pay to go to a gym to workout after their shift was over. I just couldn’t understand it, and honestly still don’t.
Not only can staying active in the workplace make you feel better, but it can save you money too.
A Gym Membership
I’ve never purchased a gym membership, and I never will. When I worked in more active roles in the hotel business, I used to have a co-worker who would try to hideout on the job so she didn’t have to work as much, but would then pay to go workout after our shift ended. I just couldn’t understand it. We had more than enough to keep us busy and active at work, yet she was willing to pay a monthly fee to go work out after trying so hard to get out of physical activity at work.
To Tired to Party
Staying active in the workplace can lead to other money savers as well. When I worked in hotel operations, I often ended up using equipment or jumping in to help out with various jobs and projects. This meant that I left work each day feeling exhausted, yet fulfilled. It also meant that I really didn’t have much of a desire to go out with co-workers and drink or party after work, preferring to head home, see the wife, and enjoy some quality relaxation. This only added to my ability to save money, which might otherwise have been poorly spent on too much after-work socializing.
Join the Team
Certain employers offer free activities or options to help keep you fit in the workplace. A company softball, basketball or similar team could be a low cost or free option whereas you might have to pay to join a neighborhood or community league as well as supply your own equipment.
At one of the hotels at which I worked, the fitness center actually opened early to employees to provide them with an opportunity to exercise for a minimal fee before work.
Not Everyone Has an Active Work Role
Not everyone has a job that allows for much exercise though. Being stuck behind a desk all day can leave you itching to get up and get a little exercise.
For several years I was stuck in such a role. Therefore, I would use breaks to my advantage. Since I was often tired of thinking or dealing with customer service, a little mindless physical activity often came as a relief. Sometimes I would take a walk around the block, walk nearby bills over to customers (a great way to see accounts face-to-face) or even head back to the hotel laundry room to help the attendants fold sheets and towels or conduct a few room inspections for the housekeeping department. These options not only provided some much-needed exercise, but got me out of the office and interacting with employees in other departments.
Getting There is Half the Battle
Sometimes just getting to work can be an opportunity to work off some calories and save a couple of bucks. Being able to walk, run or bike to work can significantly reduce the daily cost of transportation.
When I used to work in downtown Chicago, I had a 10 block jaunt from Union Station to my place of employment. Rather than hopping in a cab, I braved the often severe Chicago weather and hoofed it each day (or night rather, as I was working the 3rd shift at the time). It was often an invigorating and exhilarating walk, plus it saved me the cost of a cab ride five nights a week.
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Disclaimer:
The author is not a licensed financial professional. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Any action taken by the reader due to the information provided in this article is solely at the reader’s discretion.