Exercise for Programmers

Staying on top of your game is best accomplished by continuously learning and by ensuring you are mentally and physically at your best.  As a desk jokey it can be difficult to get enough exercise in a day so you have to be pro-active about staying in shape outside the office.

For several years I did a lot of running, 4-5 times per week I would run between 5km and 30km. Running is a great exercise because:

1. it’s intense – you can always push yourself to run faster/further.
2. Very little equipment required – just running shoes
3. Local fun runs and races to keep you motivated
4. Great way to see your neighbourhood from a different perspective
5. it engages your entire body

After moving to a new city running became  less enjoyable due to poorly maintained sidewalks and the only walking paths close by are along a noisy highway.  So I discovered something else to focus on.  Strength training.

Strength training has a number of key benefits to health.  It makes you prepared for those few days a year that require lifting and moving heavy furniture or equipment.  The last thing you want to have happen is to throw out your back when doing some chores around the house.  When it comes to strength training the classics seem to be the most effective: deadlifts, squats, and bench press.

Regardless of if you choose to do running, strength training, cycling, swimming, walking or yoga it would be wise to trade some evening TV time for some physical activity.