How to Sneak in Exercise at Work
By Amber Page
Chances are, you already know that you're supposed to work about 30 minutes of exercise into your day at least five days a week. But if you're like a lot of Americans, what you don't know is how you're supposed to make time to work out -- especially if you're juggling work and family.
You can get the exercise you need -- you just have to change the way you go about it.
You don't have to try to fit in 30 minutes all at once. In fact, you can break your workouts into little chunks that you can do while you're at work.
Here are some sneaky ways you can fit in exercise without missing a beat.
Sit on a Stability Ball
Sure, your desk chair might be crazy comfy, but it's probably not doing any wonders for your posture, your core muscles, or your overall fitness.
A stability ball, on the other hand, forces you to keep your core muscles engaged and helps you to sit straighter, ensuring you get a low intensity workout every time you take a seat.
Introduce Walking Meetings
Conference rooms are boring and yawn inducing. Why not go for a walk instead? You and your coworkers can have a productive meeting that will improve everyone's mood and fitness level.
Gotta do a conference call? Grab your cell phone and take it on the road. As long as you don't get too out of breath, no one will know you're not sitting at your desk.
Put Some Speed Into Your Day
If you're moving around, make it a point to move faster. Power walk to the water cooler. Take the stairs and see if you can beat the elevator on your way down to lunch. Park your car at the back of the parking lot and see how fast you can make it to the front. The sky's the limit!
Take Active Breaks
Sure, you could kick back and watch a cat video or two. But you could make better use of your time by sneaking in a little exercise.
Do a little desk yoga. Jog in place. Try some jumping jacks or other simple calisthenics. Short bursts of exercise like this can make a big difference!
Start a Workplace Exercise Challenge
Chances are you're not the only one feeling like you could use a bit more exercise. Recruit some coworkers and make it a challenge to see who can get the most steps, log the largest number of minutes spent working out, or whatever would best fit the culture of your office.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Derby, Kans.