Our tips for getting back into shape (and keeping it that way)

1- Sleep well, the key to staying in shape

To stay in shape, the first challenge is to get enough sleep to recharge your batteries. It's obvious, yet so difficult to keep. Between the long days at work, the activities at the end of the day, the TV series to watch... evenings are often too short and bedtime late.  

And yet, it's important to assess the number of hours of sleep you need to stay in shape. Between the ages of 25 and 64, it's recommended to sleep between 7 and 9 hours a day. However, this can vary greatly from one person to another. The best thing to do is listen to your body. If it's hard to wake up and you need several cups of coffee to get going, try going to bed a little earlier. 

2- Regular physical activity, a source of energy

It's also very important to give your mind a break from the daily grind of work and family life. And there's nothing better than a session of sport, either indoors or out in nature. Regular physical activity keeps you toned, relieves stress and makes it easier to fall asleep.

There's no need to aim for records. On the contrary, take it easy. Walking or jogging, swimming a few laps in the pool, doing a few muscle exercises at home or even at the office during a break, will help you stay in shape.

We recommend that you regularly take a breath of fresh air. Contact with nature is essential for keeping a positive mindset.

3- Anticipate and plan to avoid stress

Many of us live at 100 km/hour. Our many activities throughout the year obviously contribute to making our lives fulfilling. However, unexpected events can be a source of stress. To avoid this, the key is to adopt good organization at family level, by correctly dividing up tasks and missions, and ensuring that everyone has time for themselves.

Planning events as part of a shared agenda, communicating regularly about expectations and desires, and anticipating needs and events help prevent surprises and unforeseen events.

At work, give yourself regular breaks. When you're back home, get some fresh air and take a moment to read or watch your favorite TV series. And why not take a little nap? 

4- Stay hydrated 

To stay in shape, it's essential to drink water. Dehydration is the source of many problems: headaches, aches and pains, illness and fatigue. We recommend drinking 1.5 liters of water a day. Take a small water bottle with you. 

With the start of the new academic year, business events are also on the increase. We won't be missing out on one or other after-work get-together with colleagues. Bear in mind that a glass of alcohol, even if it quenches your thirst, contributes to the body's dehydration if consumed unreasonably.

5- With Pluxee, a varied and balanced diet

Resuming good habits also means returning to a varied, balanced diet. Skipping breakfast (or eating one with too much sugar) often leads to sluggishness at the end of the morning. Afternoon fatigue is often the result of an overly rich meal. Forgetting to eat can also make you irritable at the end of the day. 

To stay in shape, your body needs energy. That means eating well. With your Pluxee Lunch card, you can pay directly for all your daily food purchases at numerous Pluxee-affiliated restaurants and shops. At each of them, you'll find all the energy you need. It's up to you to make the most of it!