Why You Should Prioritize Exercise

Every morning my alarm goes off at 4:50 a.m. I get up, get dressed, brush my teeth, fix a protein shake, and I'm out the door by 5:20 a.m. Despite having a hellish hour-long commute to work, my first stop each weekday morning is a small exercise studio twenty minutes from my apartment.

My workday starts with exercise. It's part of my job.

Recently, I read an HBR article that spoke of the benefits of regular exercise. I expected to read about the physical benefits. You know, lower blood pressure, toned body, healthier heart, etc., and was surprised to read research about the mental and psychological benefits, from improved concentration and faster learning to prolonged mental stamina and enhanced creativity. I knew getting up and onto that spin bike would do wonders for more than just my waistline.

But, what incorporating exercise into my work routine has taught me most about is the fine art of prioritization. As the article points out, the excuse not to exercise is often the lack of time. This is certainly a valid argument. There are finite hours in the day and competing work and familial deadlines are out of control. But, when you prioritize exercise you make time for it, like you make time to spend time with your family, eat dinner, read the paper etc.

So, treat exercise not as a "nice to do," but as a "must do." For you. For your family. For your company. For your co-workers. View the time spent as an investment, not a cost. Exercise pays more dividends than you can imagine.

But, I'm no scientist, and this post is getting a little preachy, so check out the article from HBR I referenced above, and look at their research-based suggestions for exercise. One of the one's I like is to invest in physical activities that you like. You don't have to pound the pavement or run like a hamster on a treadmill. If you like banging drums vigorously, do that, and do it with passion. Finally, I love the tip about focusing on "mastery." Strive to be great at whatever exercise pursuit you have, not just good.

So, get after it folks. Ready, set, Go!