This year, the Lunchtime Workout is BACK

This year has changed the way our lives look in many (or, most) ways. And our fitness routine is one area where we have seen some significant shifts. Being confined to our houses over the past nine months has provided many people the flexibility to recommit to a fitness routine (or cling to one for an ounce of sanity in a world where we now live where we also work).

Gone are the days where people arrive at the office and keep their butt glued to a desk chair for nine hours. For the first time in a long time people are utilizing a lunch break — and they are using the time to work up a sweat.

“For the first time ever, 12 p.m. is the most popular time to work out during the week,” according to the report. “Lunchtime workouts have seen a 67% increase in popularity. This shift can largely be attributed to a rise in remote work — and the ease of no-shower required virtual meetings. Even as people have returned to studios, the 12 p.m. weekday time slot for in-person classes is more popular now than it was before lockdowns.”

And health experts say a midday workout is good for your physical and mental health (not to mention your productivity). “I love lunchtime workouts because they encourage improved circulation, stress reduction and mobility after long hours sitting at a computer,” agreed personal trainer and women’s weight-loss coach, Stephanie Mansour, who encourages her clients to squeeze in midday workouts when possible.

The habit can also help you make healthier choices for the rest of the day. “Working out earlier in the day can make you more mindful about afternoon snacking or overeating at dinner, and helps you feel more accomplished for the rest of the day,” Mansour said.

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