Do you sit too much? If your job requires you to be at a desk for most of the day, it can take a toll on you.  When we’re sedentary for long periods, our muscles weaken, and our bodies start to deteriorate. This can lead to a greater risk of heart attacks, strokes and other medical issues. But the good news is whether you work at home, in an office, or in any role that requires a lot of sitting, there are some minor changes you can make to help your health. Here are a few things you can do at work, so you sit less but still get your job done.

Get Up Frequently

Go fill up your water glass, visit the washroom and regularly stretch your legs.  Regular movement is not only good for your body, but it can clear your head and help energize your brain.  (If you need to remind yourself to get up, set a timer on your phone!)

Have Walking or Standing Meetings

If you’re meeting up with one other person, go for a short walk outside to get a little exercise and discuss your agenda items.  Bonus: studies show new environments can help unleash creativity.

Also, try standing meetings back at the office. Many teams incorporate these types of meet-ups with employees.  A standing meeting is not only a good break for our bodies, but it often keeps the meetings shorter and more focused.

Try New Furniture

If budget permits, consider purchasing a standing desk.  These desks have become much more common in work environments over the past few years.  But be sure to get one with adjustable height, so you have the option of standing or sitting during parts of the day.  Check out my previous post, Standing Desks: A Case Study. Also, try sitting on an exercise ball for a few minutes of the day to engage your core muscles and keep your body alert.

You can be productive and healthy at the same time! For more office productivity and time management tips, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter here.