Getting Fat Because of Work Schedule?

ZootRN · May 5, 2006

After 3 12's in a raw, I usually lose a pound or two. Seriously.

I've lost 7 pounds since I started my job in late February, and I am not even bike-riding anymore (no time when I am working, too tired when I am off).

my2sons · May 5, 2006

I would run stairs during my 30 minute lunch breaks. My co-workers thought it was weird, especially during the night shift, but it worked for me. I found it to be a great stress reliever, as well as "intense cardio.

MarySunshine · May 5, 2006

I ride my bike to work (3 miles) and I take the stairs (7 flights). It helps. :) If you don't have the biking option, I suggest getting 30 minutes of cardio somehow after work on just one of the 3 12-hour shift days. Even if though you won't feel like it. I will usually eat an apple with peanutbutter or something about an hour before the shift ends so I have the energy to go do that. But that way you can still get your 5 days of cardio. Best wishes! You will be a better nurse if you feel good. :)

oneLoneNurse · May 5, 2006

I don't. I just eat less. You can just forget the workouts if you eat less. And to be honest, you really have to burn alot to decrease that weight. Whenever you get older, the pounding on your knees from running or whatever else you do, may not be such a good thing. I look at every calorie I consume. But, usually work out twice a week, on the tread mill and free weights.

My previous job was as a Clinical Systems Analyst. My weight is more in control since I started my 3 12s as a nurse. I am up most of the night walking around the unit.

I know that's a sassy title but I thought it would get folks' attention. It's a real concern of mine! It's my biggest fear about becoming a nurse. I'm worried how I'll find time to exercise once I graduate. I'm someone who needs to work out 5-6 times a week to stay a normal size, not even skinny. I know nurses walk a lot but I'm talking weights, and intense cardio. Especially you people who work three 12's in a row, how do you find time for your workouts?
Thanks,
Tofutti

Lamie · May 5, 2006

I agree that watching what you eat is important. Supposedly, weight loss/keeping weight off is 80% diet, 20% exercise. Watch what you eat. For me, low carb has worked fantastically for over four years. I do exercise with free weights and the treadmill too, but if I let my diet slide, I can tell, despite all the exercise I do.

rds007 · May 5, 2006

I am worried about that also. I do not exercise to keep my weight down-I have always been thin, but I do it because it makes me feel better physically and emotionally. I run 4.5 miles 4 days a week and lift 3 of those days. I am not looking forward to decreasing my workout when I start nursing school in August, but I think it is inevitable. Let's hope we can find time to squeeze good workouts in somewhere:pumpiron:

Victoriakem · May 5, 2006

After 3 12's in a raw, I usually lose a pound or two. Seriously.
I've lost 7 pounds since I started my job in late February, and I am not even bike-riding anymore (no time when I am working, too tired when I am off).

When you work 12 hours shift in the ED, you are lucky to get a lunch break. I have a slim fast for b-fast when I work, or oatmeal before leaving for work, eat a sandwich & fruit & NO snacking while working. I may drink some juice if I feel hypoglycemic but don't eat the cookies & chips that seem to be out all the time. When I worked 12 night shifts, I would eat dinner before work & be good all shift & not eat b-fast when I got home, unless I was REALLY hungry then would have toast with p-nut butter & warm milk to help me sleep. I lost a lot of weight then. I am back down, mainly because we don't often get a lunch break but I keep protein bars & slim fast drinks handy to get through the day if necessary.

scrmblr · May 5, 2006

Not to be the sour grape...but I have gained some weight since I started working in the ER. I sound alot like you...I work out DAILY to stay a normal size. I generally do an hour of cardio (running or eliptical) and 25 min of weights 4xper week.

I have found that I can still manage to work out on the days I work...(I LOVE my home treadmill) My problem is my shift is always so dang busy! I always feel like I have to eat on the run. I TRY to avoid the stupid donuts everyone thinks is part of life in the ER...I TRY to bring sensible food to work! I TRY not to eat after my shift is over...

I have had 5 days off and have managed to stay on a sensible eating plan. I go back to work tomorrow and I will be bringing my own food and NOT NOT NOT snacking on the crappola that everyone brings to the break room!

I get up at 0500 and do 40 min on my treadmill before work and then I do floor work, core work and some stretching/yoga after work...(like I said...If I could just eat better!)

elizabells, BSN, RN · May 6, 2006

NOT NOT NOT snacking on the crappola that everyone brings to the break room!

dingdingding! When I started working 12s I gained almost ten pounds. Then I realized that just because one kiddo's mom brought muffins every morning and candy throughout the day, it didn't mean I had to eat them. Presto chango, lost the weight.

Tweety, BSN, RN · May 6, 2006

Gee, I struggled to find time to workout in school.

When it's a priority, you can do it. However, I only work out four days a week and work 3 12's the other. It's the best I can do, but I know people who can work a 12-hour shift and work out.