How many days do you come home stressed out over the events of the day? Still thinking about things that kids (or parents, or administrators) did that got you worked up? Do you bring that stress home with you or leave it at school? I know I have trouble leaving it at the door, but when I can go jump on the treadmill or the elliptical and pound that stress out, my mind definitely becomes more free.

2) Working out can renew your energy level for the rest of the day.

This is especially true if you can do it right after school. I usually have some grading (or planning) that I bring home, or I need to help my daughter with homework during the evenings; when I take that exercise time right after school, I get recharged for the evening.

3) It helps you avoid snacking.

I don’t know about you, but when I get home, I feel like eating EVERYTHING
I can get my hands on, (and I’m often tempted to choose foods that aren’t very healthy!) When I work out, I don’t have the same snacking urges.

4) Creativity

Research shows that exercise helps memory and stimulates creativity. It’s a great time to run lesson/activity ideas through your mind; somehow that extra physical activity gives your brain the boost to make those lessons more engaging/exciting/interesting!

5) Sleep better!

Extra physical activity helps me sleep better. What teacher doesn’t need to get good sleep?

Exercise for Teachers

So, which of these benefits of exercise for teachers would you most like to have? It’s hard to pick just one. So grab those sneakers and add some exercise to your day. Don’t love running or hitting the gym? Check out these ideas for some not-so-traditional but fun forms of exercise.