Are you sitting too much?

We sit at our desks, we sit in our cars and then we sit to eat and watch TV. You’ve probably heard the saying that “sitting is the new smoking”. We are generally aware that sitting for long periods is not good for us.

Studies have shown that spending more than six hours seated can raise our blood pressure and can increase our likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, weight gain and depression. Additionally, there are also the musculoskeletal problems that can occur – the sore back, neck, wrists, and so on!

With summer approaching if can feel a lot easier to get out and about in the evenings, but it is still important to move throughout the day.

If you find yourself sitting too much during the day, here are some tips for being proactive about moving your body at work.

Ideas for moving your body at work

1. Take breaks

Get up from your desk and go for a walk, be it around the office, to the water cooler, photocopier, etc.

2. Have some face time

Rather than email someone all the time, get up and visit that person who sits on the other side of the room with your question! You will be able to practice your interpersonal skills too.

3. Stretch

Your body is designed to move. This doesn’t need to be a yoga session, just a few minutes a few times a day – click here for some useful stretches.

4. Use the stairs

Get the blood pumping and don’t use the lift whenever possible!

5. Have a walking meeting

Take that brainstorming meeting for a walk around the block!

6. Change how you use the phone

Instead of sitting at your desk while you’re on the phone, try taking phone calls standing up.

7. Walk to get water

Instead of having a large bottle on hand, have a smaller one so you need to get up and refill more often.

8. Set up your work station correctly

A good set up will help to avoid any aches and pains.

Is your workstation set up correctly?

Poor workstation set up is a health and safety risk. Workstations that are set up with the correct positioning of equipment can prevent risk of injury and strain on the body.

Intesafety conduct workstation assessments in the Nelson region, including: