Increased health issues due to the lack of exercise are becoming more concerning. The health threat traces back to the sedentary lifestyles that most people have nowadays, especially in the office.
Most of us have to stay really long in our desks to complete tasks and keep our jobs. Working to make ends meet decreases our energy and time for exercise. Below are 10 ways to stay active even when working in a sedentary office.
1. Avoid The Messenger Or E-mail.
If you have something to say to a person in the office, opt to go to the person face to face instead of using technology.
2. Drink Lots Of Water.
This hits two birds with one stone, you get healthily hydrated and can get to spend a few steps back and forth the loo for some brisk walking.
3. Private Squats In The Bathroom.
Doing 10 to 15 squats in the bathroom would just be quick. Byrdie shares, "They need no equipment, can be done discreetly in a bathroom or stairwell, and require very little space, since you're not extending any limbs."
4. Choose The Farthest Meeting Room.
If you plan to schedule a meeting, choose the farthest room from your desk. Same goes if you need to print some documents, select the farthest printer from you.
5. Lunch Break Walk. Instead of taking a nap after eating your lunch meal, walk to the closest food chain near your office. This allows walking in going to the food place and getting back to work.
6. Stand Up More.
Standing uses more muscles than sitting, stand whenever you can. Or stand when talking phone calls or when holding a meeting. Prevention.com also detailed some sitting exercises that can be done while on your desk.
7. Get NEAT.
According to WebMD, NEAT stands for Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis, and includes stretching, turning and bending. James Levine, MD, author of Move a Little, Lose a Lot recommends at least 10 minutes of NEAT in each hour.
8. Minimize Trash Bins.
Having individual trash bins in every desk can be tidy but extremely sedentary. Employees should walk out of their cubicles for the trash can at some point of the day.
9. Use The Stairs.
If given an ample amount of time, use the stairs instead of the elevator. You get to save energy as you save your heart.
10. Avoid The Vehicles.
Consider the distance of your office from your home, if it can be reasonable for a walk, do so. If it is a little bit far, choose a healthier transportation method like a bicycle. If you ride a train to work, then stand while in transit.
Staying healthy is a matter of choice, no matter what the conditions are. If a person really wills to be active, then there is a way for it.
