Let’s be honest: If you’re like me, chances are you’re living the same sedentary lifestyle that I do. Wake up in the morning, check your social media, wash up, get dressed, go to work, get home, relax, and sleep. Maybe you go to the gym a couple of times a week or on the weekends, but there’s a few more ways to keep fit while working 9-to-5.
#1 – Count your steps
If your office is on the 3rd floor, use the stairs instead of the elevator. Park your car a little bit further away so that you get an extra minute of cardio in the morning before work and evening after work. Have lunch a bit further away than that coffee shop across the street.
#2 – Don’t snack
Office pantries usually stock biscuits and chips for employees, but these foods are usually high in carbohydrates and provide little nutritional value. If you do feel a little peckish, choose something healthy like an apple or (unsalted) nuts.
#3 – Hydration is key
Drinking lots of water not only keeps you hydrated and aids metabolism, it also makes you feel full so you don’t snack on junk food while working.
#4 – Move around
Walk to your colleague’s desk to discuss things, or head to the pantry to get a drink (hydrate!). Use the furthest photocopier to print documents. It might not be the best idea to walk around too often though, or your boss may think you’re slacking.
#5 – Stretch
Doing simple stretching exercises at your seat can prevent that stiff joints feeling when you stand up after a long day of sitting. It also helps to iron out stiff limbs and gets you moving, which is a good thing if you’re at your desk the whole day.
#6 – Sneak in some desk exercises
Grab a water bottle and do some simple lifting, or do the classic ‘left foot in left foot out’ jiggle. If you have some extra time during lunch, try out some of these workplace exercises. It might look and feel weird at first, so grab a colleague and do it together.
#7 – Stand and work
If your workplace allows it, get a standing workstation to do a couple hours of work. Standing helps to increase your metabolic rate and fat-burning enzyme activity. You can improvise by using a low shelf or cupboard as your workstation.
Now, go ahead and try them out! Just try not to scare other people if you’re trying out those workplace exercises.
