A 2018 study found that 25% of Americans sit for more than eight hours every day. Though that number seems high, it makes sense given how many Americans work at jobs that require them to sit in front of a computer all day.
Sitting for long periods of time isn't good for the body. Sitting too much can lead to back pain, problems with circulation, and many other health issues.
If you work at a job that requires you to sit for most of the day, it's important to find ways to stay active at work. Here are some suggestions.
1. Do a Lap Around the Office Every Hour
While it may seem like getting up from your desk once every hour would lead to a big decrease in productivity, studies have shown that taking breaks actually makes you more productive. Plus getting moving will often help you regain focus and come up with creative solutions to problems.
So, once per hour, get up from your chair, take a big stretch, then do a lap or two around the office. You'll loosen your muscles, get your blood flowing, and come back to your desk ready to work.
2. Get a Standing Desk
Standing all day probably sounds a bit intimidating, but it's actually better for your body than sitting. Of course, you'll need to focus on standing with proper body mechanics, which means you'll need a standing desk setup that's ergonomic.
Start by making sure that you're standing desk is at the right height. Then make sure that your computer is at the right height so you can see it without looking down. The proper height for your keyboard is a height where your forearms rest on the desk with your arms at a 90-degree angle.
Standing while you work is a great way to keep your blood flowing, to work on proper muscle engagement for functional movement and good posture, and to relieve back pain.
3. Sit on a Wobble Stool
If a standing desk isn't the right fit for you or if you have mobility issues that prevent you from standing for long periods of time, then sitting on a wobble stool might be the right solution for you. Though you're still sitting, using a wobble stool instead of a chair requires you to be active while you sit.
Since the wobble stool isn't a stable surface, sitting on it requires you to engage your core and leg muscles to create stability. It also encourages better posture.
Plus, sitting on the wobble stool makes it easy to sneak in some activity while you're sitting. You can move back and forth and side to side to get your blood flowing and work your muscles.
More Ways to Stay Active at Work
These are just a few ways to stay active at work. Making these changes can help you counteract the negative impacts of sitting during your workday.
For some more tips about keeping your body healthy in the workplace, check out our blog about the importance of office ergonomics.