Staying active while working a desk job
People who sit for more than ten hours a day have a 38% higher risk of a heart attack.
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week with the theme of movement. Simply being active and moving can improve your mental health as well as your physical health, which is why we thought we’d share our top tips for staying active while working at a desk job.
5 ways to move more at work
Ditch the car
Walk, cycle or run! There are lots of different ways to get yourself to and from work. If you’re lucky enough to live close by, this is a great way to start your morning (and you get to save money on fuel!)
Many businesses also offer a cycle-to-work scheme, if you’re not sure if yours does, then ask!
Walking meetings
Swap the board room for the outdoors and consider a walking meeting every so often. This is a great way to break up your day and inspire some creativity in your team.
If you do decide to do a walking meeting over the phone, take into consideration your phone signal beforehand. Be conscious of confidential information when in public – try using terms like ‘the company’ or ‘the client’ rather than specific terms if the topic is private.
Step away from your desk
Something as simple as taking regular breaks to step away from your desk can make all the difference in your long-term health, particularly when you work in a role that has you stuck at a desk all day.
Desk yoga
There are lots of different versions of this, but activities like desk yoga or simply stretching exercises encourage blood flow and lower the chances of stiff joints.
Standing desks
This is more popular with work-from-home employees, but standing desks are a great way to avoid sitting down all day. Many standing desks are adjustable so you can sit or stand as you please, and you can pair them with other tools such as a walking pad to get your steps in.
