smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

For all the numerous and well-documented benefits of exercise, it doesn’t compete with the pleasure of a stiff drink. That seems to be the verdict of the SmallBusiness.co.uk collective for our latest poll: ‘What activity helps you to de-stress?’

Twenty-four per cent of you decided that “going for a swifty” was the best way to unwind, while 18 per cent liked to go for long walks and 15 per cent enjoyed a swim. A rather brave two per cent like to relax by working additional hours.

Perhaps our sedentary inclinations stem from the bad psychic karma of our school days. After all, physical education classes create a weird new social hierarchy of winners, losers, and irate, angry teachers who seem to feel no shame in wearing tight, brightly coloured tracksuits.

One alarming study suggests that by 2050, nine out of ten people in the UK will be clinically obese, which will bring with it a whole array of health problems, not to mention additional “space issues” on the buses and tubes during rush hour. It is, therefore, important for more people to overcome their aversion to exercise and realise it is an excellent way to shed those pounds and, crucially, to let off some steam.

Jon Denoris, a fitness coach who runs a health and well-being consultancy called Club 51, says there’s no excuse for people not to find time to exercise, whatever their profession:  ‘An increasing amount of research shows that exercise can act as an inoculator to stress. The nature of what that exercise might be will differ for everyone. For some people, it might involve a tai chi class or a Yoga class, which can help to reduce cortisol [stress hormone] levels.’

With everybody working harder and feeling the pressure, it may well be worth thinking beyond the nearest bar for some relaxation. There’s always time for a quick jog, swim, game of tennis or some five-a-side-footie with friends.

Besides, nothing tastes better than a cold, post-match beer.

ps - Don't forget to take a look at SmallBusiness.co.uk's Local Legends competition.

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