Staying Active at the Office Simple Strategies for a Healthier Workday

For many of us, the office environment has become synonymous with long hours of sitting, staring at screens, and minimal physical activity. This sedentary lifestyle can take a toll on our health and well-being, leading to a host of issues like back pain, poor posture, and reduced energy levels. However, being active at the office is not an impossible feat! With a few simple strategies, you can infuse more movement into your workday, promoting better physical and mental health.

1. Embrace the Wallking Breaks

Instead of spending your entire break seated at your desk, take a stroll around the office or head outside for some fresh air. Walking not only helps you stretch your legs but also provides a mental break, boosting productivity and creativity.

4. Take the Stairs

It may be tempting to hop on the elevator, but opting for the stairs whenever you can is an excellent way to get your heart rate up and engage your leg muscles. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowded elevator, allowing for a more peaceful ascent.

7. Stand-Up Meetings

Instead of sitting through every meeting, suggest the idea of standup meetings. Standing meetings are typically shorter and encourage more active participation from everyone involved.

10. Utilize Break Time Efficiently

During short breaks, use a couple of minutes to do quick exercises like squats or lunges. These activities can help break up long periods of sitting and keep your muscles engaged.

2. Stand Up and Stretch

Make a habit of standing up every hour or so and doing a quick stretch routine. Stretch your arms, legs, neck, and back to alleviate tension and reduce the risk of stiffness. Encourage your colleagues to join in, and you might even start an office-wide stretching tradition!

5. Desk Exercises

Incorporate discreet desk exercises into your daily routine. Leg lifts, seated twists, and desk push-ups can all be done without drawing much attention. These small movements may seem insignificant, but they can add up to significant benefits over time.

8. Desk Ergonomics

Ensure that your desk and chair are set up ergonomically to support good posture. A well-adjusted chair, proper screen height, and wrist support can make a significant difference in your comfort and encourage better posture throughout the day.

3. Active Commuting

If possible, consider alternative means of transportation to the office. Walking, cycling, or using public transport can add more physical activity to your day and make your commute a healthier and more enjoyable experience.

6. Active Lunch Breaks

Use your lunch break wisely by engaging in physical activities. You could take a brisk walk, join a nearby gym for a quick workout, or participate in a yoga class. Not only will this boost your activity levels, but it can also help reduce stress and improve mood.

9. Active Office Challenges

Organize friendly office challenges or competitions that promote physical activity. This could include stepcount challenges, weekly fitness goals, or even a lunchtime sports club. These initiatives can foster camaraderie among colleagues and motivate everyone to be more active.

Remember, every little bit of activity counts, and being proactive about your health in the office can significantly improve your overall well-being. By incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine, you’ll find yourself more energized, focused, and productive at work, making the office a healthier and happier place for everyone. So, start today and make your office a hub of activity!

Valley Café

11333 McCormick Road

Hunt Valley, MD 21031

Café Hours:

Breakfast: 7:30am - 10:30am

Lunch: 11:30am - 2:30pm*

*cafe closes at 1:30pm on Fridays

Café Manager: Sean White

CafeHuntValley@compass-usa.com 410-605-8340

For catering inquiries, please contact OneCall@bofa.com