There is a lot to like about being a professional or semi-professional poker player. The freedom is hard to beat, the parties great fun and you get to travel the world doing what you love. But such a lifestyle also has its drawbacks – most notably the difficulty in maintaining your health. Let’s face it, spending up to 12 hours a day sitting down, munching on fast food on your breaks and finishing the night with a few quiet beers isn’t a recipe for the perfect waistline.
I’ve seen plenty of players pile on the pounds over the years. Most of the time it came on the back of some new found success – the sudden influx of funds has enabled them to spend more time playing poker and less time eating healthy or staying active.
What’s the solution? Well, why not simply schedule some time each day for some fresh air and exercise? Go for a run before you hit the tables or take a pump class. Even better, take advantage of the casino’s range of facilities. Just about every casino I’ve ever visited has had a gym on site, so there is really no excuse not to partake in a free workout while you’re there.
The benefits of doing so aren’t just confined to your weight, either. Fitting some exercise in is a great way to clear the mind and prepare you for the important decisions you’ll inevitably have to make when you find yourself involved in that crucial hand. Trust me, just adding a little bit of balance to your life will do wonders when it comes time to play.
