working out

I'm trying to figure this out, too. I think if exercise energizes you then a workout before work makes sense. I hear you about the washing of the hair, though.... sometimes (if I don't think a patient coughed a goober into my hair that shift) I just shower when I get home without washing the hair -- there can be an ick factor involved, I know... and that's why the hair often does get washed. So here's another idea: use dry-shampoo on your hair after the workout. Sometimes I'll do that and then put it all up in a messy bun and call it good.

I work 3 12-hour night shifts a week also, and also have a couple classes per week. I used to workout 5-6 days a week, before going into nursing, and it's killing me not having enough time now. If I workout on days I work, I go after work, since I'm already awake. But, I've decided not to beat myself up if I only make it to the gym 3-4 days a week now. I figure I get plenty of low intensity cardio on days I work.