Commuters and people who sit behind a desk don't get much exercise during the workday. This is not good for our health as it increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and poor circulation. This, in turn, increases the chances of heart attack, stroke, and even death. Exercising during the day can help reduce these risks. You can do this by exercising for 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
You start at the office. For example, move the bin a little further so that you have to get up to toss something in the bin, or move items within easy reach further away. Walk to a colleague's desk instead of emailing or calling. Go to the coffee machine more often and take the stairs to a toilet on another floor. Don't work at your desk during lunch. Instead, take a break and after that you can be more productive too.
Here are six tips for getting more active during the day:
• Practice with resistance bands at your desk. Use a resistance band to stretch your feet and extend your arms at your desk.
• Take the stairs. Taking the stairs is an excellent way to get moving quickly.
• Don't waste time waiting. When you're in line, use that time to stretch your neck and shoulders, and bend your knees for flexibility.
• Stretch during the meeting. Take a five-minute stretch break in the middle of a meeting that lasts longer than an hour and a half.
• Park your car further away. If you park your car far away from the entrance, you have to walk a bit. Even if you go by public transport, you can get off earlier to exercise for a few minutes.
• Download an app that reminds you to move. Apps that count your steps throughout the day provide instant feedback and are great motivators. You can also use apps to remind you to move around your desk.
