Staying Active at Your Desk Job

You don’t have to sacrifice your health for your 9-to-5

Staying active and fit is difficult for everyone and for those with a desk job, sitting for eight or more hours per day and finding the time to be active can be even more challenging. But having a 9-to-5 doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health. Consider these few easy ways to increase your activity at work.

Standing desk
Many offices will arrange for you to have a standing desk upon request. Your desktop is raised to chest-height when you’re standing in your cubicle or office. Having a standing desk will improve your posture, circulation and overall energy levels. You can also have a chair nearby if you get tired of being on your feet. If your office doesn’t have a standing desk option, try sitting on a balance ball. It will help improve your posture and it forces you to focus on your balance throughout the day, therefore strengthening your core.

Take the stairs
If you work on an upper floor, opt for the stairs instead of the elevator. Now, if you work on the 35th floor of a sky rise, no one expects you to climb all the way to the top. However, by taking the stairs up or down three or four flights, then hopping on the elevator, you’re upping your activity levels in the morning and at the end of the day.

Make in-person visits
If you have a quick question for a colleague, skip the email. By walking over to their workspace to speak with them directly, you’ll add to your activity levels. Plus, you’ll strengthen your relationship with that individual and encourage a friendlier working environment.

Take a break
Instead of flipping over to one of your many social media accounts during your break, go for a walk. If the weather is nice, take a stroll outside and enjoy the fresh air. If it’s cold, take a few laps around the interior perimeter of the building. You may even run into someone you know or meet someone new.

Stretch
Stretching doesn’t require a whole lot of space or excessive amounts of energy. From your seat, you can reach your arms up to the sky and stretch your arms, back and neck. You can even stand up and stretch your legs if you’re feeling antsy. Stretching will improve blood flow throughout your body and keep your muscles awake.

Go out for lunch
Instead of eating lunch at your desk, consider going out to eat. Even if you pack a lunch, take a walk to a nearby park or another dining area where you can sit and enjoy your food. Walking to and from the off-site location will help get your legs moving and give you a change of pace.

Finding time to exercise is tough when you’re working a full-time desk job, but you don’t have to give up an active lifestyle. Try incorporating these few techniques into your daily routine. The results may surprise you.