As an executive, you knew you’d be signing up for long hours and bringing work home. A recent survey by the Center for Creative Leadership highlighted just how much Work/Life balance is being eroded: out of 483 participants surveyed, 60% worked 72+ hours a week. That’s a clear path to burn out.

An executive’s day is not only physically demanding in terms of the hours—there are also the mental requirements. As a looked-up-to member of management, there’s no room for error when it comes to communication skills or decision-making abilities. A clear mind is necessary for task assignment, setting goals and motivating teams to achieve these goals.

It’s no wonder that this leaves little time and energy for other responsibilities like family, hobbies and other interests. Even the thought of doing a physical workout can be draining. However, workouts are crucial for reducing work stress: they enhance your performance as a leader, as well as your own well-being.

Here are 8 reasons why executives should workout:

#1. An energy boost

It takes 20 minutes of low to moderate exercise 3 times a week over 6 weeks to start noticing a boost in your energy. Increased oxygen levels in your body make your cardiovascular system run more efficiently, leading to a healthier heart and lungs.

#2. Improved memory

While oxygen is helping your cardiovascular system, it is also acting as food for your brain. The more you challenge your body, the more oxygen your brain receives and the better your memory can function.

#3. Increased focus

Again, the additional oxygen in your brain can improve concentration for 2 to 3 hours after your workout. A more focused brain will help with decision-making and new ideas.

#4. Greater stamina

Combining muscle workouts like squats and bicep curls give your heart and muscles a workout. As you become physically stronger, you’ll start to notice that your stamina will improve, and you become better able to handle long hours.

#5. You are happier

Exercising releases endorphins, known as happy hormones. Regular exercise have a positive impact on your overall mood. Problems that used to seem much bigger are now easier to handle.

#6. Less stress

While the endorphins help to lift your mood, they also act as a natural painkiller. Endorphins help you to get a better night’s sleep which will often lower your stress levels and help you relax in your downtime.

#7. Better impulse control

A workout is a great way to block out distractions, in turn, leading to better prioritisation. Also, exercise changes how parts of our brain work, like the area of decision-making. Making exercise a part of your new routine can help control impulses when it comes to making critical decisions.

#8. Time & productivity benefits

The change to your routine might be difficult at first but, as long as you remain disciplined, you will see that you are better at time management. Plus, having more energy, concentration, and a better night’s sleep will make your time at work more productive.

In wrapping up, workouts for executives isn’t about taking away what little free time you have. It’s about a lifestyle change to enable you to get more done during the day – and maybe even get out of the office a little sooner. On top of that, you will experience greater energy and motivation to enjoy your free time.

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