How to Keep Yourself Physically Active at Work

How to Keep Yourself Physically Active at Work

If you want to maintain an active lifestyle but you find yourself too busy to workout at gyms like In-Shape Gym, here are some tips to help you.

1. Use a standing desk.

If your work requires you to sit at your desk for 7-8 hours a day, that’s not a good thing for your posture and overall health. Consider switching to an adjustable standing desk so you can alternate between sitting and standing up while working on your computer.

2. Take the stairs.

You’ve probably been told to take the stairs instead of the elevator many times. It’s a no brainer. It will help burn calories, give you a rush of energy and is good for the heart!

3. Eat right.

Feeling sluggish after your lunch? It may be because you’re eating more carbs than protein and healthy fat. If you have no energy, you will not be motivated to stay on your feet throughout the day.

4. Make it enjoyable.

Stop viewing exercise as a chore and instead make it part of your leisure time. For example, if you enjoy having a cup of coffee before starting your day, why not walk to a nearby café instead of going for a drive-through coffee?

5. Clean your work area.

Whether you have an office or a work station, take time to clean it everyday. Even 10 minutes of arranging your desk and drawers, taking out the trash, sorting your mail, and wiping down your computer can already burn some calories.

6. Bring some weights to your workplace.

You can use dumbbells and ankle weights throughout the day. Even something so simple as leg raises with ankle weights can already help strengthen your legs and burn calories.

7. During your breaks, take time to stretch and walk around.

Doing this will improve blood circulation which is important if you’ve been sitting for hours. You can also march or jog in place.

8. Move around when taking calls.

If you’re stuck on a long call, walk around your office or work area.

9. Try to squeeze in a workout during your lunch break.

A 30-minute workout session every day can do wonders for your health and fitness. If there’s a gym nearby, then consider going there on your lunch breaks. It will re-energize you for the rest of the day and even make you more productive.

10. Do some (subtle) stretching at your desk.

Doing a few minutes of casual stretches a few times a day is good for you. Try a series of shoulder raises, leg raises, neck stretches, arm raises, etc.

Sitting at your desk all day can lead to all sorts of problems. It takes a toll on your productivity and health. Here are some of the risks of having a sedentary lifestyle:

  • Poor posture
  • Fatty acids can clog your heart
  • Your pancreas will produce more insulin leading to diabetes
  • You could be at risk for various cancers
  • Digestion issues
  • Higher stress levels
  • Weaker bones especially in the back, hips and legs
  • Varicose veins
  • Poor mental health

When you start becoming more active and avoid sitting long hours at your desk, not only will your body feel better, but your mood and overall disposition will improve too. Moreover, you’ll notice yourself becoming more productive. It’s a win-win.

Here are some stretching exercises you can do at your desk:

5 Stretches At Your Desk

Category: Featured