Exercise and Income: Work Out More, Make More!

A quick, vigorous post-lunch walk would be great for focus.

I love studies that show positive results for doing what you’re supposed to be doing anyway.  A Cleveland State University report concluded that those who work out regularly are also more likely to have higher paychecks.

In fact, according to a Men’s Health article on exercise and money,

People who exercise three or more times each week make roughly 10% more — or an extra $80 per week on average — than those who never exercise.

These results are regardless of BMI, which means it wasn’t about being thinner or appearing more fit. It was about the exercise. How cool is that?

Studies have shown that exercise can increase brain power, calm nerves, and increase productivity and confidence.  All of these are great assets to your career. It appears that you can take all these positives straight to the bank.  The same Cleveland study also found that even if you worked out just one to three times per month you still earned 5% more in salary over couch potatoes.

So strap on those sneakers and get going!

If you’re working full-time you might be thinking “how can I squeeze in exercise with my already super busy life?” I know. It can seem hard sometimes. I’ve got a few helpful suggestions below.

Early morning exercise for just 20 minutes. I don’t care how tired you are, getting up 20 minutes early isn’t going to kill you.  Do your workout first thing and you’ll hardly remember later in the day that you exercised, but you’ll still get all the benefits. Extra bonus: 20 minutes of strenuous exercise boosts brain power, so doing it first thing means you’ll be on the ball as soon as you hit your desk. Maybe even without coffee!  (OK, maybe not on the coffee. Besides, turns out coffee is good for you.)

Do 10 minute bursts. A brisk walk at lunch, a brisk walk after dinner, and another quick 10 after the kids go to bed. Everyone can sneak in 10 minutes here and there.  Try to plan them into your day and spontaneously take advantage if you find yourself suddenly waiting around for something to happen.  If walking isn’t your thing, there are a lot of DVDs that cater to 10-minute intervals or check your local cable system; there might even be something in the video on demand section.

Exercise in front of the TV. You might not be willing to give up your favorite show, but maybe you can compromise and do some exercise while you’re watching.  I have a Spin bike in my TV room and I’ll hop on it regularly while I watch a show.  I use the commercial breaks as a chance to sprint fast or do a hill climb for a little extra boost.  If you can’t have equipment, no worries; you can do bootcamp style moves on even a tiny patch of carpet.  Think squats and pushups and you’ll be great.

That’s just a few ideas to get you going. Has anyone begun a workout program and then have their salaries go up?  Or have you seen a friend go through the process?  Maybe a smaller waistline isn’t enough incentive, but how about retiring sooner?

Cheers,

Lisa