I conducted 2 workshops at IMD
IMD: “That’s why IMD’s Orchestrating Winning Performance program invited the best personal trainer in Singapore – Coach Sharm from Guru Fitness (Rebranded: Bodythrive.co) – to give theoretical, and especially practical, tips for business leaders to keep fit even with busy work and travel schedules.
Sustained leadership involves balancing mental, emotional, and physical health
As a personal trainer with over a decade of experience helping hundreds of executives and professionals, I was thrilled to be invited to IMD Singapore to conduct two wellness workshops as part of their Orchestrating Winning Performance program.
The goal of these workshops was to provide practical tips for busy business leaders to maintain their physical fitness, even with demanding work and travel schedules.
As a fitness coach, I strongly believe that sustained leadership requires a balance of mental, emotional, and physical health. Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise, but the two are not interchangeable.
That’s why it’s crucial for executives to engage their bodies and stay active, as physical exercise has been shown to improve cognitive performance.
During the workshops, I emphasized the importance of exercise, no matter how busy you are. According to guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine, adults should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
However, this doesn’t have to be done in one session. Just 10 minutes of exercise, such as brisk walking, standing squats, or any other activity, can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.
I encouraged participants to view their bodies as their brand and to work out with pride.
When you exercise, people are looking at you, and your physical appearance is a reflection of your brand. By getting moving, you can make a positive impression on yourself and others.
In conclusion, I was honored to have the opportunity to share my expertise with the participants of IMD Singapore’s Orchestrating Winning Performance program.
I hope that my tips and advice will help busy executives and professionals to find the time and motivation to prioritize their physical health and maintain a balanced, fulfilling life.
Lessons, in depth
The Power of Exercise: Fueling Success and Sustained Leadership for Executives
Introduction
Throughout my 25 years as a personal trainer, I have had the privilege to work with countless senior-level executives. These individuals come from various industries and backgrounds, but they all share one thing in common: a desire to excel in their professional lives.
As someone who has dedicated my life to helping others achieve their fitness and wellness goals, I cannot stress enough the importance of exercise for sustained leadership.
In this blog post, I will discuss how mental, emotional, and physical health are interconnected and how incorporating exercise into your daily routine can lead to a successful and well-balanced life.
The Importance of Exercise for Sustained Leadership
Leadership is not just about delegating tasks and managing people; it’s also about leading by example, staying resilient, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The demands of being an executive can be mentally and emotionally draining, making it crucial to prioritize physical exercise as a way to stay sharp and focused. In my experience, the most effective leaders are those who invest in their health and well-being to ensure they can continue to inspire and drive their teams to success.
Making Time for Exercise
As a senior executive, your schedule is often packed with meetings, travel, and other responsibilities. Finding time for exercise can be challenging, but it is not impossible. I always advise my clients to start by setting realistic goals and making a commitment to incorporating even just 10 minutes of exercise into their daily routine. This can include simple activities like taking a brisk walk during a conference call, doing bodyweight exercises during a break, or even dedicating a few minutes to stretching before bed. The key is to find what works best for you and make it a consistent part of your daily routine.
Engaging the Body
Physical exercise is not just about staying in shape; it’s also about engaging and challenging your body to improve cognitive performance. Regular exercise can help increase blood flow to the brain, reduce stress levels, and enhance mental clarity. This, in turn, can lead to better decision-making, improved focus, and increased creativity – all essential traits for effective leadership.
The Benefits of Exercise
There are countless benefits to regular exercise, ranging from improved cardiovascular health to increased energy levels. For executives, these physical benefits can translate to better stamina during long workdays and reduced risk of chronic illnesses that could impact job performance. Moreover, exercise is known to have a significant positive impact on mental health, as it helps to release endorphins that boost mood and reduce stress levels. This mental boost can help leaders maintain a positive outlook and effectively manage the challenges that come with their roles.
Your Body is Your Brand
As a leader, it’s important to remember that people are always observing you, and your physical appearance plays a significant role in shaping their perception of you. By maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, you are not only setting a positive example for those around you but also projecting an image of discipline, dedication, and success. Your body is a reflection of your personal brand, and prioritizing exercise demonstrates a commitment to self-improvement that can inspire and motivate others.
Encouraging a Positive Attitude Towards Exercise
In my years of experience, I have found that the most successful clients are those who view exercise as an opportunity to invest in themselves and their personal brand. By taking pride in their physical health and recognizing the impact it has on their leadership, these individuals are more likely to maintain a consistent exercise routine and reap the many benefits that come with it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sustained leadership requires a balance of mental, emotional, and physical health, with exercise playing a crucial role in maintaining this balance. By making time for regular physical activity, engaging the body, understanding the benefits, and embracing the idea that your body is your brand, senior executives can pave the way for success, not only in their professional lives but also in their personal well-being.
I urge all leaders to take a proactive approach to incorporating exercise into their daily routines. Start small and set achievable goals; consistency is key. As you progress and begin to feel the positive impact of regular exercise on your mind and body, you will find that it becomes an essential part of your life, contributing to your growth as a leader and your overall happiness.
Moreover, creating a positive and supportive work culture that encourages a healthy lifestyle can have a ripple effect throughout your organization. By promoting the importance of exercise and wellness, you can foster a more engaged, productive, and happy team. This, in turn, can lead to better overall performance for your organization.
Remember, as a leader, you set the tone for your team. By prioritizing your health and well-being and demonstrating the importance of exercise, you can inspire those around you to do the same. Ultimately, this collective commitment to wellness will not only benefit individual team members but also strengthen the organization as a whole.
So, take the first step towards sustained leadership today by embracing the power of exercise. Invest in your body, your mind, and your brand, and watch as your personal and professional life flourishes. The journey towards a healthier, more balanced life begins with a single step – make that step today.