A Shift workers workout schedule?

[lorihart]

Hi Everyone,
As some of you know,I recently have a new job. And it is shift work, 12 hour shifts, I think it will take a while for me to get use to it.I also do not think that this shifts are going to be fast paced and maybe even more laid back.Unfortunate really, b/c I love being on the go and the day goes by so much faster.
I was wodering,for all of the shift workers out there, where do you fit your working out in?
My first shift is on Sat 8-8 and sun 8-8.Somedays I may get a chance to workout after work..depending on how much I feel I have been neglecting my family.If I get up at 6 on Sat,I should be able to get a little workout in and on Sunday I can workout in the night time b/c I don't have to work on Mon.
But do you guys just do cardio on the days that you are working?I figure if I work a 5 day week(that being the most) I could do cardio on the days I am working,will only take me an hour, but on my days off I could do weights (and cardio if I wish).
I just have my workout schedule to a "T" and I know I am going to have to switch somethings around. My other week,when I am only working 2 days that week will be a joke, I will have lots of time, between laundry and cleaning......
What am I in for?
Lori

 

[cakebaker]

Here's what I would do: Your day off from exercise every week would be one of your 12 hour days. Start wearing a pedometer EVERY DAY, and aim for at least 10,000 steps per day. Really make an effort to walk everywhere - steps, extra walking in parking lots, etc. For formal workouts, till you get used to your schedule, do CTX for a month. Then revisit us and let us know how you're doing.

 

[lorihart]

I think I need more exercise then that.And I will have 5 12 hour days some weeks.
I think I will do cardio on my 12 hour days.When I put my child to bed and maybe on my off days I will do just weights.It will only take me an hour and I will still have time to do all of my house work.
I just like knowing what my schedule will be.There will be very little walking in this job.It is a pretty low-key job and once you are there, you are not aloud out.Its a stop for private jets to refuel, you can't leave b/c they can come anytime.It is a smaller building, no steps.But I will try to keep busy by cleaning.That should burn off some cals for days when I may not feel like working out.
Lori

 

[Renee McFar]

On the days you work, I think your idea of getting a workout in before work is good. If you get off at 8pm, it will be at least 8:45 till you are home and ready to workout. Do you have any kids? If so, when you get home they are going to want/need mommy time.

Working 5 12hr shifts in a row is going to be hard. Is there no way to break it up a little?

I only work 24 hrs a week, thank goodness, and the days I work are strictly cardio days. I save the weight training for my days off.

Enjoy your new job! Renee

 

[cakebaker]

You are not used to 12 hour workdays yet - that is a TOUGH schedule, and that's why I'd caution you to go slow and stick to brief but intense workouts like CTX. See what you think when you're well into your first week.

 

[lorihart]

Two weeks will look like this,
Work-Mon,Tues,Fri,Sat Sun (off Wed,Thurs)
2nd week,
Work-Wed,Thrus,(off mon,tues,fri,sat,sun)I think I will like that week! Actually full-time is 15 shifts a month.I am getting 13 so it won't even be as many as I have posted above.
Some weeks I will work nights,so I think it will be easier to work out in the daytime.The day is an 8-8 day.BUT he said,the girls do their own hours.Its 12 hours, but it could be 6:30-6:30,0r 7-7,you get the idea.If it is 8-8 it will be easier to get a short run in in the morning.
I do have a child.So some of my off time will go to homework and quality time but DH is around also.
I think I will figure it all out when I get my schedule.I am just not sure yet when I will be working days or nights.
Thanks,
Lori