When you’re sitting for the majority of the day, staring at a computer screen, it can take a toll on your physical health. Many employees working in a traditional office find themselves battling weight gain, back pain, and general physical and mental health concerns. Most people realize the importance of getting enough daily exercise, but few follow up and actually do it. It can be exhausting trying to find time to workout and incorporate fitness into your normal routine, but the results are certainly worth it. I previously wrote about some ways you can stay fit while working a desk job, but here are a few more you can utilize in order to get moving.
Take advantage of company fitness benefits
Many companies, especially larger ones, offer employees incentives to participate in fitness programs. You may have lower health insurance, get gift cards or a bonus, or something else. Companies know that if you stay healthy, they benefit, so they encourage employee fitness. If your company is willing to reward you for looking after your health, it’s a win-win situation.
Start a fitness group with coworkers
Even if your company doesn’t have an official fitness program, you can still get fit with your coworkers. Find some people at work who would want to get gym memberships together, form a soccer team for after work, or do outdoor activities, like hiking. There are sure to be other people in your office who want to improve their health and you’ll have someone else motivating you to stay active.
Take a daily walk outside of your office
If you work in a city, there’s sure to be plenty of places to walk. If you work near a park, take advantage of it! Even if you’re just walking around the city sidewalks, you’ll be active and can get some fresh air. You’ll gain great health benefits and feel refreshed when you return to your desk.
Set reminders to move around
It can be easy to lose track of time and then realize you’ve spent a few hours hunched over your desk focusing on your computer. However, it’s important to spend time every hour moving and looking away from your screen. Set reminders on your computer or phone to let you know when it’s time to take a break and move around. Fitness trackers can be especially helpful for this goal because many of them vibrate every hour to remind you to take a certain amount of steps.
Find some exercises you can do at your desk
There are lots of simple exercises you can do at your desk that’ll help you. Many of them are small and likely wouldn’t be noticed by other people. The first step toward becoming more active is incorporating small changes into your daily routines that add up to a big impact. Even taking shorts breaks throughout the day to do a couple of exercises or even just stand up can be beneficial.
Make fitness an activity you enjoy
In your mind, fitness might mean cardio and spending long hours at the gym. This picture doesn’t have to be what your version of fitness is. You can stay active by taking walks, going hiking, or playing informal sports. There are plenty of great hobbies that involve physical activity and can be enjoyable.