Make the most of your lunchtime

Your lunch hours add up to five hours per week. That’s nearly 22 hours in the average month. We say, get out there and use it! These are our favourite ways of making the most of this time …

Go for a run
Use your lunch break as running time. Running is one of the best forms of exercise, not only for getting fit but for weight control too.

A 30-minute run, three to four times a week, trims your waistline, strengthens the cardio-vascular system, improves muscle tone and definition, and installs a positive mental attitude. A running break away from your desk will leave you more refreshed with boundless energy all afternoon.

Go dating
Single guys and gals can go online to one of the many online dating websites. According to the Office For National Statistics, the lunch hour is the peak time for many single people looking for their perfect date. If you get a date, a lunch break is perfect — it’s enough time to suss them out, and if you aren’t keen, you always have the excuse of getting back to work in an hour and you haven’t wasted a Saturday night!

Take the plunge
If there’s a swimming pool near your work you have no excuse, get down there! Most pools have lanes sectioned off over the lunch period. If there isn’t one near work, why not work through your lunch break and leave an hour early to go after work? Half an hour’s swimming burns off more than 300 calories, and it’s great for stress relief and improving your all-over body shape.

Write a letter
Writing is a great stress-buster and can help you air your deepest emotions. You could scribble your thoughts in a diary, or write to someone you have been meaning to for months. It will make you feel amazing.

Hit the gym
Virtually all gyms now have shorter classes especially designed for people’s lunch breaks. An active class will boost your energy for the afternoon ahead, or a yoga class could relieve any tension that built up over the morning.