
Many of us spend a large part of our workday sitting, and it can be difficult to find time to move around and be physically active during our free time. Unfortunately, this sedentary work environment can have negative consequences for our health and well-being. It may therefore be a good idea to try to integrate physical activity and movement into our daily routines, which can help improve our health and productivity.
Below are a number of suggestions on how to make physical activity part of your daily routine.
Incorporate physical activity into tasks you already have to do: If you think about it, many of the activities we do throughout the day can be replaced with more active alternatives. It may sound like small things, but it all adds up to your overall activity level—and any movement is better than none.
A simple change to your daily routine could be taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Stairs are a great way to get your heart rate up and work your leg muscles. It might seem a bit daunting if your office is on the top floor, but you can try getting off a few floors early. That way, you can gradually work your way up.
If we sit still for too long, our bodies can become stiff, and most of us are familiar with the feeling of discomfort in the lower back, upper back, and neck after spending too much time in an office chair. In this case, it can help to move around; there’s nothing wrong with sitting in a specific position—the important thing is simply to shift your position. If you’ve been sitting for a long time, it’s a good idea to raise your desk and stand for a while. This also forces your body to focus more on your posture. Do you need guidance on setting up your workspace? Check out this guide, or get professional advice at your workplace.
Not all meetings have to be held while sitting down. You could try planning meetings where you go for a walk. This is not only good for your physical health, but it can also help boost creativity and keep the conversation flowing.
It’s often harder to skip the scheduled walk, the active breaks, or the trip to the gym if you’ve made plans with others rather than just yourself. If you have a regular arrangement with your coworkers, you can motivate and hold each other accountable. One way to ensure this is by offering company-sponsored fitness programs.
At Acture, we have extensive experience with workplace fitness, and we’re happy to advise you on how your specific workplace can become more active. Integrating physical activity into the workplace doesn’t have to be difficult. By implementing some of the tips above, you can increase daily physical activity and achieve a healthier and more productive workday.
Remember that even small changes can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being. So get started today and make physical activity a natural part of your work routine.
See how Computersalg increased physical activity in the workplace —and reduced absenteeism due to illness
https://www.youtube.com/embed/sHKj-2PyCaQ