active lifestyle to stuck at a desk

Hey all.

So I usually lead a very active lifestyle, I love MOVING. I recently just finished my first marathon (yeehaw Nashville), I love bike riding, walking my dogs, swimming, shopping for hours, cleaning, ahha I just love moving. 

I am not overweight, but recently my lifestyle has completely changed.  I am studying for my medical school boards which means I am at my desk from 630 am until about 7pm- then back it until about 10...bed.  I am trying to exercise when time permits (I'll keep a slim in 6 dvd in the player and do it im going stir crazy for like half of the duration, sometimes I can make it to the gym for spin class if its like a 45 min. one) but my time is very limited.  On top of this, I have a hip issue that has been preventing me form running >3 miles at a time...

Basically, I am dying to move, but I am trapped. Additionally, i have gained about 4 lbs sitting here on my bottom!! I am still a healthy weight (5'9', 136) but I am fidgety and extremely unhappy.  The stress of this exam has also made me turn to foods like ice cream and candy.  I try to limit my intake to under 1800 a day but its hard to care/keep track when Im hyperfocused on this exam.

BASICALLY, does anyone have any advice/has been in this situation and you did something that worked, like 10 jumping jacks every half hour or something? Haha I dunno, just looking for support/advice on what to do.  1 month to go. ARGH

I keep a stability ball in my office and get on that when I feel like moving but stuck at the desk.  I can continue to work and bounce, roll and do some exercises on the ball.  Really helps strengthen your core at the same time.  I do make sure that I get up and move around frequently and do some stretches using the door frame so my shoulders don't get all tight.

Try to eat high volume foods that are lower in calories, like frozen fruit instead of ice cream. Try making time to get into the gym and do something even if it's only for 45 minutes, like you said. It'll help keep you focused, believe me! Does the elliptical hurt your hip? That can be good for calorie burn too, without as much impact on the joints. Good luck my dear, it'll be over before you know it :).

Oh great idea with the ball...i def have one of those lying around. I keep getting up to stretch but I def feel it in my neck and shoulders.  Seems kinda fun too, thanks lynn!

hilary: looove frozen fruit, but it just doesn't hit the spot when im feeling bad for myself HAHA. at least im honest.  Yea, the elliptical bothers the hip too, but not as much. Maybe i'll try it tomorrow. My gym is about 10 mins away so it adds over an hour lost, which can be precious time... but alas, it def helps me focus. guess im gymmin tomorrow at 530!