Move More Month: 5 Types of Physical Activity To Boost Energy

If I asked you how much you move during the day, what would you say? Well, if you had back-to-back meetings, showings, and endless emails, you'd probably say you were "on the go" all day. But all that sitting and driving can take a toll on your body and mind. April is National Move More Month and the perfect time to focus on intentional movement to stay energized, prevent burnout, and improve your overall well-being.

Why Movement Matters for Real Estate Professionals

I used to power through days without even realizing how much time I spent behind the wheel or hunched over my desk—until my body started calling me out. By the end of the week, I felt stiff, drained, and honestly a little foggy. I thought I was constantly moving, but really, I wasn’t stretching, wasn’t fixing my posture, and definitely wasn’t slowing down long enough to reset—I was just hustling from one thing to the next.

Movement doesn’t always have to mean hitting the gym. It’s about finding small ways to stay active during your day—especially in a job like real estate where the pace can be nonstop.

Here’s why it matters more than you might think:

• Boosts Energy – Sitting for long hours and moving from one showing to the next can leave you drained. Regular movement helps to increase blood flow, sending more oxygen to your brain and muscles, which can improve focus and energy levels.

• Relieves Stress – Stress from juggling multiple clients, deals, and trying to build your business is common. Physical activity helps release endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers. This can help you feel calmer and more balanced throughout your day.

• Prevents Burnout – Constant stress without adequate physical relief can lead to burnout. Integrating movement into your day helps reset your mind and body, giving you the stamina to continue performing at a high level without feeling overwhelmed.

✅ Pro tip: One of my pain points—literally—was my lower back and my hips. Once I started walking (in proper shoes) regularly and making sure to stretch, I noticed a huge difference in how my body sustained its energy. I also try to make a conscious effort to loosen my jaw and drop my shoulders during the day as I have those tendencies when I'm in front of the computer. Take notice of your pain points and habits so you can start incorporating small changes.

Types of Movement to Include in Your Day

Time-blocking is your best friend when it comes to making space for you. Let’s face it—personal time is usually the first thing to skim from when we're low on time. But even if you can’t squeeze in a full workout, little bursts of movement throughout the day can still make a big difference. Let's dive into a few simple ways to build more activity into your routine.

1. Stretching – Start Your Day Right

Stretching is one of the simplest ways to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injury. It’s also an excellent way to start your day in general and can be paired with another wellness activity like prayer or meditation.

Here’s a quick stretch routine for real estate agents:

• Neck stretches: Tilt your head side to side, holding for 10-15 seconds on each side. This helps alleviate tension from looking at screens or driving.

• Shoulder rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backward to release tightness, especially after hours of sitting or typing.

• Hip openers: Stand and rotate your hips in circles or do a quick lunge to loosen up after sitting in your car.

2. Walking – Energize Your Day

One of the simplest (and most underrated) ways to move more is by walking. It’s easily one of my favorite self-care habits I’ve picked up over the years. It helps me loosen up, clear my head, and soak in some fresh air—and when I need to hit pause, it’s the perfect way to step away from work and come back feeling recharged.

Try these:

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator to get your heart rate up.

• Park farther away from your office or listing appointments to get in a few extra steps.

• Walk-and-talk meetings with clients, if possible, to get your body moving while you discuss business.

  
  

3. Quick Movement Breaks – Reset Your Mind and Body

Taking small breaks throughout the day helps you avoid long periods of sitting, which can quickly lead to stiffness and fatigue. These short pauses give your body a chance to reset—improving circulation, posture, and even mental clarity. Over time, incorporating these mini movement moments can help you feel more energized and less drained by the end of the day.

Here's how you can stay active during your day:

• Set a timer every 45-60 minutes to remind yourself to stand up and stretch or take a walk around the block.

• Do desk exercises like seated leg raises or seated twists to get the blood flowing while you're catching up on emails.

4. Yoga or Pilates – A Full-Body Reset

If you have a bit more time, incorporating yoga or Pilates into your routine can offer a full-body stretch and strength session that balances both the body and mind. These low-impact practices are great for improving flexibility, posture, and core stability—all things that can suffer during long days in the car or at a desk. Plus, they provide a mental reset, helping you return to work with more focus and a calmer outlook.

✅ Pro tip: Try using an app like ClassPass to find classes on the go. I’d often search for a nearby yoga or stretch class after my last appointment, and it made a huge difference in how I felt both mentally and physically. It’s a simple way to add movement into your day without having to plan too far ahead.

5. Dance It Out – Let Loose for a Mental Break

If you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, turn on your favorite music and dance for a few minutes. It’s a fun way to release tension, boost your mood, and get your body moving without taking yourself too seriously. Dance breaks are a great way to re-energize during your lunch hour or between client meetings, or my favorite... in the kitchen prepping my nutrition.

The Bottom Line: Move More to Prevent Burnout

Incorporating more movement into your day can seem like a challenge, especially with a packed real estate schedule. But just a few minutes of stretching or walking can have significant benefits for both your body and mind. Movement helps you stay energized, reduces stress, and prevents burnout, ensuring that you can keep showing up as your best self for your clients and your business.

Use this information as a reminder to make a commitment to move more. Start small, stay consistent, and see the positive impact it has on your well-being and career.

Want more tips on staying energized and avoiding burnout? Head over to the wellness hub to dive into wellness strategies designed specifically for real estate professionals like you.