Chances are you’re sitting down while reading this, and as comfortable as you may feel, you could be putting your health at-risk. Numerous studies show that sitting for up to eight hours a day could lead to serious health problems, such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
This spells trouble for many Americans, who spend anywhere from eight to 13 hours a day sitting down. In fact, 80 percent of Americans have jobs that are sedentary or require only light physical activity, according to the journal of PLos One.
Here are some great tips to increase your physical activity at work:
1. Invest in a sit-to-stand desk. The adjustable desk allows you to stand while working, which helps to increase blood flow through the body. The American Medical Association recommends more employers and employees invest in a sit-to-stand desk to avoid the potential risks of prolonged sitting. The desks typically cost between $500 and $1,500.
2. Break free from email. Instead of sending your colleagues an e-mail, deliver the message in person. The walk can help you burn a few calories and potentially strengthen bonds with co-workers.
3. Hold walk-and-talk meetings. Give your metabolism a boost by going on a walk with your colleagues or boss to exchange ideas or next-steps about a project.
4. Walk during business calls. Try this technique if you don’t have any important documents to reference during the call. It can help increase your energy and improve your blood flow, making for a much better conversation.
Experts are now recommending that you should stand up at work for at least two hours of your day.
5. Move trash cans and printers farther away from your desk. This is another nifty trick to get you up out of your seat and increase your step count.
6. Bring your dog to work. Dogs always need to be walked and having one around forces you to to do the same and get moving. Check with your company’s policy to see if you’re able to bring your pet to work.
Experts are now recommending that you should stand up at work for at least two hours of your day. However, if that’s not an option for you, make sure you are taking other necessary steps to get your blood flowing throughout. Hopefully, these tips will help as now’s the time for you to stand up for your health… literally.
