Standing desks have become more prevalent in the workplace than ever before, helping to improve energy levels and burning up to 50 more calories per hour than sitting. Sitting at a desk all day can lead to lethargy and laziness. Staying active at work not only has physical benefits, but mental and emotional ones as well.
Since wearable devices have hit the market, they’ve become a staple in the health and wellness industry. The daily goal of hitting 10,000 steps has become common amongst users. This target was not selected by accident, it is the daily number of steps the American Heart Association recommends. This achievement may be easy for some, but for the majority of the working population, it’s a challenge! So how can you guarantee you hit your daily mark while working 8 hours a day at a desk, helping to drive energy, improve mood and the quality of work output?
Below are 6 Steps to Stay Active at Work:
1. Go for a quick walk (remember to take a morning and afternoon “coffee” break, with or without the coffee ;)) – Every once in a while, get up from your desk and take a quick walk. It could be around the office, or around your building, but those few minutes spent walking will give your mind a break. Move your eyes away from the computer screen, while also adding to your daily goal.
2. Use the stairs – say “no” to the elevator – Instead of waiting for the elevator in your building, take the stairs! You will add steps towards your goal as well as to build muscle in your legs.
3. Inconvenience yourself – to improve your health – Do you drive to work? Uber to the office from the train station? Walk a few extra blocks instead of taking the subway. Or pick a parking spot further away from your building, to force yourself to walk further each way. Ditch the Uber and walk to the office, increasing your steps and saving you money!
4. Set an alarm to remind you to energize – Set an alarm on your wearable device or smartphone to go off every few hours. Each time it goes off, take a short walk. At work, most people lose track of time and forget about their daily goal. Planning ahead of time will better help you get up and moving.
5. Take advantage of your lunch break – If you have time, take advantage of your lunch break to get up and go for a walk. Even just 5-10 minutes away from your desk has benefits. Instead of sitting in the break room watching TV, go outside for your break. You’ll be surprised at how many steps you can get walking just 10 minutes!
6. Set goals and reward yourself – Set weekly goals for yourself. For example, if your goal is to hit 10,000 steps 3 times a week, once you complete your goal, reward yourself after. If three times a week becomes too easy, bump it up to 4 or 5 times a week, or 12,000 steps instead of 10,000.
Our experienced wellness team is available to help your organization implement strategies to drive an active workplace.
