Beware the Office Chair. Plan to Sneak it in!

Posted Friday April 06, 2018

Posted By: Christine Taylor

Category: General

Research clearly shows that a sedentary lifestyle is a health risk. Think about your workday. Most of us spend the majority of the day sitting. So, what can you do? Find ways to Sneak it in!

Why should I Sneak it in? 

The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults recommend that every Canadian adult get at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week, or 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for better health.  Although this may sound like a lot, this breaks down to just 3 ten-minute bouts of activity a day! 

What benefits can I expect by increasing my physical activity at work?

• Better concentration
• Increased productivity
• Improved workplace satisfaction
• Reduced stress
• Improved relationship with your employer
• Higher self esteem
• Healthier weight
• More energy
• Improved posture
• Better overall health

Try these ideas to help you Sneak it in!  

• Stretch every hour if you sit at a desk
• Stand up while talking on the phone
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator
• Use your commute to do some extra walking by parking farther away or getting off the bus and few stops early to walk
• Use an app to track your daily steps
• Invite colleagues to have walking meetings

Resources to help you stay active at work:

• Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults 18-64 years  
• ParticipACTION
• Stretches you can do at your desk
• Bilingual workplace poster Tension Relief: It’s a Stretch

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