Don’t let office work turn you into a couch potato
John Inkster, MS
Operations Manager - Wellness
CentraCare Health
I’m sure you have heard the new catch phrase “Sitting is the new smoking.” But when your job requires that you sit behind a computer all day, it’s easy for unhealthy practices to become routine.
Recent research shows that getting up and walking for two minutes every hour could help reverse the negative health effects from prolonged sitting.
Current exercise recommendations advise adults to get at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity each week. But 80 percent of Americans don’t meet this goal.
Tips for keeping fit at work
- Walk or bike to work. Too long of a commute? Get off public transport a stop earlier or park your car further away from the office.
- Stand up whenever possible. Ask your boss for a standing workstation. If that is not possible, find a surface such as a cupboard or cabinet where you can stand to work. Even if you just stand up during phone calls, it’s better than sitting all day.
- During breaks, go for a brisk walk or do some stretching.
- Use a body tracking device or reminder app so you don’t forget to move.
Consciously try to get up and walk for a couple of minutes every hour.
