How To Stay Fit As A Day Shift Nurse

How do you survive a 12 hour day shift and still meet your fitness goals?

 Whether your goal is to build muscle, have more energy, or to eat healthier… working day shifts can be distracting.

I hear “I’ll start on my days off” on the daily.

Day shifts are busy busy busy, and can be challenging at the best of times. Being prepared and having a routine can help you stay on track AND reach your fitness goals. What is better than working the job you love and being on track to feeling your best AT THE SAME TIME!?

Nurses, you got this.

  1. Pack ALL your meals the day before your set– this way you know that you will get all the macronutrients and micronutrients you need during the day.

  2. Include foods that are satiating– lots of protein and healthy fats!

  3. Take your breaks and use that time to eat– missing meal times may cause you to eat the entire fridge when you get home.

  4. Grab a low calorie coffee in the morning– your latte may be betraying you.

  5. Avoid the lunchroom bakery spread– the sneakiest way for extra calories to work their way into your diet. 

  6. Bring a water bottle and hydrate– water is your friend, and your skin will thank you. 

  7. Think positive thoughts– this might seem silly, but it’s proven that practicing positive thinking results in greater outcomes.

Set one goal each day shift.

Drink more water, pack your lunch, think positive thoughts. The career you love should not deter you from meeting your fitness goals and staying active and healthy.

Make day shift work for YOU! 

Tag me with the hashtag #fitasanurse and tell me how you are making your day shifts healthier for you!