Quarter-life diaries: 5 workouts for the on-the-go young professionals

Balancing work, social life, and personal time as an on-the-go young professional can feel like a high-wire act, but staying fit doesn't have to be daunting. Squeezing in a quick sweat session in the morning before tackling deliverables or winding down from a long day, here are five fun and effective fitness activities that can seamlessly fit into your busy schedule.

Cycling and Running for a Heart-Healthy Habit

Our heart acts like the engine of our career and cardio exercises like running and cycling are like giving that engine a tune-up. So if you need a quick cardio boost, hop on a bike or lace up your running shoes! These activities are perfect for a speedy morning workout or a refreshing evening wind-down. If you don't have a bike, try joining cycle studios around the metro. You can also join running clubs, especially now that running is becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, downloading running applications can help you track your progress and stay motivated.

Engage in Martial Arts like Boxing and Muay Thai

Unleash your inner fighter with Boxing or Muay Thai. These high-intensity workouts are a great way to burn calories, build strength, and release stress after a long day at work. Most importantly, you’ll feel empowered and energized. Beyond fitness, these martial arts provide valuable self-defense skills and boost confidence. Many gyms offer beginner classes so you can learn proper techniques and get a fantastic workout simultaneously. Plus, it’s a great way to meet like-minded individuals and build a supportive community.

Pilates for On-the-Go Young Professionals

Are you looking to tone up and improve your posture? Pilates is what you need. With its focus on core strength and flexibility, you can easily fit a session into your lunch break or as a part of your evening routine. It’s low-impact but highly effective and enhances overall body awareness and control. The exercises can be tailored to suit your fitness level and can be done at home with minimal equipment or at a studio with professional guidance. Pilates also helps alleviate stress and can be a great way to decompress after a busy day. 

Stretch, Breathe, and Find Your Inner Peace with Yoga

Find your zen amidst the chaos with yoga as it helps improve your flexibility, balance, and mental clarity. It’s the perfect way to de-stress and stay centered. Various styles from vigorous Vinyasa to calming Yin, ensure you can tailor your practice to fit your energy levels and schedule. Additionally, practicing yoga can enhance mindfulness, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep, making it a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Groove Your Way to Fitness

Turn up the music and dance your way to fitness! Dance cardio workouts are a fun and lively way to burn calories and boost your mood. It feels more like a party than exercise, making it an enjoyable addition to your fitness routine. Whether you prefer Zumba, hip-hop, or freestyle dance sessions, these workouts can be easily done at home or in class. Not only do they improve cardiovascular health but also enhance coordination and rhythm providing a full-body workout that's both effective and entertaining.

There you have it! These five fun and fabulous fitness activities are perfect for fitting into the busy life of on-the-go young professionals. It’s important to prioritize our health and well-being alongside our careers, as investing in our health right now will pay off in the long run. After all, taking care of ourselves is an investment we can’t afford to ignore, especially as time goes on.

Now go ahead and conquer your day, one workout at a time!

Explore Roselle Dumada-ug's insightful journey through her 'Quarter-life Crisis' series—dive in to see how she navigates and redefines the Filipino experience at this pivotal stage of life!