Fitness in the work place – doesn’t really sound like it goes hand-in-hand does it? It may sound a bit silly or uncool but it could save you big physio bills, improve your health and keep you mentally stimulated.
As a society that works 8 hour days on average, that’s a lot of quality time when we are mostly sitting on our rump steaks in an office or workplace environment. That’s not even taking into consideration time spent sitting on our backsides traveling to and from work!
When I looked into the ramifications of being sedentary at work for such long periods of time, I was shocked to learn that a lot of office workers can suffer from a myriad of ailments such as:
- repetitive use injuries that lead to neck and back pain
- wrist and forearm discomfort
- shortening of the hip flexors
- psychological disorders from not being stimulated physically
- boredom
- being overweight / obese and type 2 diabetes
- musculoskeletal disorders from poor posture.
Now that I have shocked the hell out of you and you’ve quit your office job, there is so much we can do from a fitness perspective. Being proactive and taking some responsibility in your own well-being (that doesn’t take too much of your time) can aid you incredibly and have a massive impact on how you feel overall.
Some ideas for you to try:
- Take action and start by using the stairwell rather the lifts
- At work make the time to get up and move every hour for a couple of minutes
- If possible work from a standing desk or at least replace the office chair with a Swiss ball. This will strengthen your core giving you better posture and a stronger mental resilience
- If possible get up and have face-to-face time (actual conversation) rather than sending that email to a work colleague 20 metres away
- Try not to have the office equipment at your fingertips so you have to get up and move
- Ask your boss to set up a stretch room, so you and your work mates can use for 5 minutes every few hours.
By only changing a few small things that hopefully lead to new habits, this will not only keep you alert, increase your productivity but will also stimulate you mentally and physically. The benefits of which can only lead to a more positive working environment and a decrease in workplace injuries from lack of movement.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re sitting down reading this article while at work - be proactive get up and get moving!
Health and fitness is a lifestyle choice. Until next time.