On Public Transportation
If you ride the train or bus to work, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a book or the newspaper. Not only will it help pass the time and distract you from stressful thoughts or traffic delays, but it’s a good way to prevent yourself from eating out of boredom. If games are more your style, play a round of Tetris on your smartphone: It’ll give your brain a workout. If you’re actually hungry, having healthy snacks like hard-boiled eggs or celery sticks with nut butter on hand to avoid the typical unhealthy options in most bus or train stations. Finally, do your body and your conscience some good by offering up your seat: Doing so burns more calories and increases your circulation for a much-needed energy boost.
By Car
Those who commute by car daily gain more weight than those who do not, so drivers should make an effort to park further from the office and take the stairs instead of the elevator to add more movement to their routine. Exhale and suck your stomach in, contracting it back toward your spine, hold tight for 5 seconds and release; repeat 10 times. If you’re behind the wheel for a substantial chunk of time each day, consider carpooling. Sharing a vehicle with others allows you to spend time socializing with friends and coworkers, offsetting the isolation that causes unhappiness among commuters.
By Foot
Walking just 30 minutes a day can lower your risk of death – who knew your commute was adding years to your life? Not only does walking on a daily basis lower blood pressure, prevent diabetes, and reduce your risk of cancer, but it’s a major mood enhancer as well. For an even greater boost, bring your iPod along for the walk
By Bike
The bikers among us seem to be a happy bunch. Bikers report higher levels of satisfaction with their commute over those with other modes of transportation – and studies also show that bicycling to work can decrease your risk of mortality
By Plane
Frequent flyers know the temptation posed by caloric airport food, so advanced preparation is key to keeping your commute from adding inches to your waistline. Ditch convenience fast foods for portable healthy options like apples, bananas, or a baggie of nuts. Eat moisture-rich foods like sliced fruits and veggies and drinking plenty of water.
