Easy Ways to Stay Fit at the Office

Image source: Fey IIyas

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while keeping a 40-hour-a-week job is not an easy task. Every day, you get to work pretty darn early and many days you leave the office late. And whether you’re sitting behind a desk taking client calls, or sitting behind the wheel of one of your company’s trucks, you’re sitting. A lot.

Luckily, there are a few ways that you (the employee) can still maintain your health while working long hours. And manager: There are a few things you can change (and add) at the office to help your employees keep fit and healthy, too.

For employees

Invest in fit-boosting technology

While technologies, such as television and video games, can make a person more inclined to recline, some innovations (think fitness apps, health websites, etc.), can help people stay healthy.

Use technology to track your health

If your days are packed and you can only fit in random runs in your day (aka you don’t have a particular “running path,” and you just run whenever you can), you can track what you’ve done (and a lot more) by using technologies, such as the UP by Jawbone wristband, to store your activity.

Bring your fitness routine to your desk

Use a fitness ball instead of a chair to improve your balance and strengthen your core muscles. Also: Keep small weights at your desk, and stretch through the day when you can. And take time to go for a daily walk outside -- the sunshine will do you good!

For managers

Offer fitness classes during lunch (or at other times during the workday)

Small businesses often can hire an independent contractor who teaches an aerobics class, or a yoga class, to teach a class -- in the office -- once or twice. Employees can pay a small fee to participate in the class.

Keep healthy snacks in the office kitchen

You don’t need to go overboard or anything, but stocking the office kitchen with healthier options, such as whole-grain oatmeal, natural juice, organic coffee, and fresh fruit, can influence employees to eat healthier throughout the day.

 

Consider adding a standing desk

Granted, this may be a bit pricey, but it may be worth offering a standing desk to employees who are in the office a lot. Or just add a few standing desks throughout the office, and allow people to use them as an option throughout the workday.

Resources

Mashable.com, “Live: Chat About the BestTech for Health and Wellness,” by Dani Fankhauser

Mayo Clinic, "Workplace Exercises: How to Burn Calories at Work," by Mayo Clinic Staff

Forbes, "What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Standing Desks," by Steve Mullis