Why Every CFO Should Prioritize a Daily Workout to Boost Performance and Resilience

Today’s CFOs face an incredibly demanding role, with the pressure to guide their organizations forward in increasingly complex and competitive markets. They’re often up early and, before they know it, they are moving from one critical meeting to the next, interacting with their key lieutenants and teams. The demands on their time are immense, and while many are embracing AI and technology to streamline operations and improve decision-making, there’s no denying that they are human, not robots.

In such a fast-paced environment, it can be easy for a CFO to push personal well-being to the bottom of the priority list. But as challenging as their days may be, one practice that every CFO should incorporate into their routine is regular exercise. Ideally, this would be a daily workout routine, with mornings often being the best time to start. However, the key is not necessarily when they work out, but that the exercise routine is consistently added to their schedule and becomes a non-negotiable part of their day.

The idea of squeezing in a workout might seem impossible for a busy CFO, but it is essential to recognize the vast benefits that regular exercise can offer—both mentally and physically. For executives under constant pressure, taking time for physical activity is not just about fitness; it’s a critical tool for maintaining peak performance in all aspects of their demanding role.

One of the primary benefits of regular exercise is the positive impact it has on mental clarity and focus. Executives like CFOs are often required to make complex decisions under high pressure. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins and promotes better blood flow, which can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and boost problem-solving skills. Many executives report that their best ideas come during or immediately after their workout sessions, as physical activity provides the mental break needed to think more clearly and creatively.

Beyond mental benefits, physical exercise helps reduce stress—a constant companion for any CFO. With the weight of financial performance, investor expectations, and strategic direction on their shoulders, stress is unavoidable. However, regular exercise can serve as an effective release valve. By incorporating physical activity into their daily routine, CFOs can reduce the effects of stress, improving their emotional resilience and ability to handle challenges without becoming overwhelmed. This is particularly important in high-stakes environments where remaining calm and composed is crucial.

Incorporating a daily workout also contributes to better energy management. Many executives start the day with good intentions but find themselves drained by the afternoon due to the demands of meetings, decision-making, and constant communication. A morning workout can help combat this. It boosts energy levels and metabolism, setting the tone for a productive day. Even a short, brisk walk or light yoga session can help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day, reducing the afternoon slump and keeping a CFO sharp for the full duration of their busy schedule.

Moreover, regular exercise promotes better sleep, which is critical for executives who need to be at their best. For CFOs juggling a whirlwind of responsibilities, getting a good night’s sleep is often a challenge. Exercise can improve sleep quality, helping them to recharge more effectively and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.

However, for many CFOs, the challenge lies not in understanding the benefits of exercise, but in making it a priority amidst the endless work demands. This is where discipline and commitment come into play. A workout routine should be treated like any other important meeting on the schedule. It’s easy to cancel a workout in the face of an urgent task, but the key to success is ensuring that exercise remains a consistent, non-negotiable part of the daily agenda. In doing so, the CFO is investing in their own long-term performance and well-being, which, in turn, benefits the company.

While mornings may be ideal for many due to the way a workout can set a positive tone for the day, other times can work just as well—whether it’s a midday break to clear the mind or an evening session to unwind after a busy day. What matters most is consistency. Finding a routine that works within the CFO’s demanding schedule is essential, but once found, it needs to be respected and protected from work distractions.

Ultimately, prioritizing physical well-being through regular exercise isn’t just about maintaining fitness—it’s about enhancing performance, mental clarity, stress management, and long-term resilience. For today’s CFO, who is often stretched thin across critical functions and meetings, incorporating a workout routine isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for staying at the top of their game. By making time for this essential practice, CFOs can navigate their demanding roles with greater energy, focus, and effectiveness, setting themselves and their companies up for long-term success.