Work it! How to stay active working from home

For many of us, the transition to working from home has brought challenges. One being that we aren’t moving as often as we would if we were working outside the home. Leaving the house typically provides more opportunities to move, such as parking your car further from your workplace entrance, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or getting a coffee with your colleagues.

If you’re working from home during the fall and winter months, there may be less incentive to leave the house if you don’t need to (which can be a blessing and a curse). With less movement baked into your routine, you could experience negative effects from increased inactivity.

A common misconception is that physical activity means working up a sweat at the gym or playing a sport. But research is showing that any type, intensity or amount of movement contributes toward improved health, both mental and physical. Even taking a break from sitting by walking around or stretching for a few minutes can make you feel better.

According to a recent study, moving more, even as little as an extra 10 minutes per week, can have a positive impact on your overall health.

Ways to move more at work

  • Whether you’re working at or away from home, set a timer on your phone every 45 minutes to move away from your desk.

  • Stretch your body. Many movements you can do from a seated or standing position.

  • Try a sit/stand desk—you can buy or DIY your set-up.

  • Stand up during phone calls and meetings as often as possible.

  • If you have time, schedule walking meetings.

  • Visit a co-worker rather than send an email.

  • Drink lots of water during the day. Not only is it good for you, it will mean more trips to the washroom.

  • Use your coffee and lunch breaks as a chance to get outside for a short stroll – invite a colleague to join you!

Squeezing in these short bouts of movement at work is easy and will not only help you feel better but also increase your productivity. What are you doing to make your move at work? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

Previous
Previous

Walking Nova Scotia’s vineyards

Next
Next

Make your move, bit by bit