[jensfbay]

Any suggestions on how to incorporate exercise when working 12-hour shift? I know that we have 4-days off during the week but what if you also need/want to work out for the day that you are working? I end up having to wake up at 4 or 4:30 cuz I'm usually exhausted after work and usually have no energy to exercise after. Any suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks!

[oMerMero]

I work with some people who run the stairs during a break at work.

[RN2Bn2006]

I work out 3 days a week. If I have worked the night before, I go straight to the gym when I get off. I work out approx 1 hour, and then I sleep pretty darn good! It is sometimes hard to motivate myself to go - I could easily justify not going, but go anyway - most of the time! you get used to it after awhile!

[italianrn07]

Hi, I work 12 hour shifts, 3 days a week. What I do is go work out on my days off. It is very hard though if I work 3 week days and it's my weekend off, then I try to workout on Sat or Sun. Sometimes exercise gets put on the back burner because of other plans or just wanting to lounge around on my days off, especially the weekend. Working 12 hour night shifts is even harder. On my days off I am mostly sleeping and my gym is not 24 hours, therefore sometimes I feel like working out at 1am but can't.

[Nurse_Advocate]

There's something about exercising outside that is therapeautic. If at all possible (weather permitting), exercising outside is my first choice. For me, walking (wrist weights?/ankle weights?) is best...walking with a spouse, significant other or trusted friend (even a loved pet) is even better!

My husband and I walk at least 4 times a week to a local nature preserve (we're so lucky) and take in the natural beauty. It is breathtaking. Sometimes we get lucky and see unique animals or gorgeous plants and flowers that are so charming that we can't help but stop and admire them up close.

It's great cardio going up hills. In fact there's something about walking up hills (in the outdoors) that gets me in touch with myself (and my faith) and helps me to really appreciate the "now". A good stress release too!