Ready to Take a Stand?
We know standing out at work is good for our career. Turns out, standing up has its merits too – like better health.
Those who sit for six or more hours a day are 54 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack, despite having healthy eating and exercise habits.
That’s according to a recent report in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal. What gives?
“Our muscles are not being stimulated – there is less oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange” when we sit over a long time, explains Dr. Tanya Douglas-Holland.
“Over time, this could lead to metabolic changes in the body which can cause poor health.”
Even more troubling: only 5 percent of Americans get half an hour of exercise a day during the week, according to the CDC.
Ready to get a move on at work? You can invest in a standup desk ($307) – a regular desk raised a few extra feet. The TrekDesk ($479) fits around a treadmill, so you can walk while typing emails, writing proposals and getting the job done.
If those options aren’t in your budget, adjusting your habits might be a better solution. Holland suggests brisk walk breaks – just 10 to 15 minutes in the morning and afternoon.
Parking farther away in the parking lot and frequent stretching – like trying to touch your toes for 20 seconds – can help break your sedentary cycle.
Set and reach goals with a pedometer that tracks your steps.
Plus, Second Act lists six ways to stay active at work, like keeping resistance bands in your desk drawer and setting a low computer alarm to remind you to do a lap around the office.
Bonus PINK Link: Get in shape at your desk with the workaholic’s workout.
By Farren Davis
“Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person’s physical, emotional, and mental states.” Carol Welch
Recommended
-
What’s Your Legacy?December 18th, 2023
-
Get Ready And Resilient For Th...October 18th, 2023
-
One Rx For Employee Community ...April 19th, 2023
-
Five Ways To Grow And Nurture ...March 22nd, 2023
-
How To Turn A Love Of Writing ...December 1st, 2021
