How to stay active at work during winter
Although we’re not officially into winter, with all of the rain and chilly temperatures around, it’s definitely on its way. Winter tends to be a time when we slow down and are much more sedentary, because who wants to be out in the freezing rain? However, to try to keep any winter colds at bay, we need to keep as active as possible.
So how can we stay active when we’re working and it’s miserable outside? Here are a few easy things to try.
1. Get walking
If the rain stops, getting out and about for a walk in the fresh air is definitely the best option, but when it’s just too cold, or you don’t want to get soaked, even walking on the spot or around your workspace will help.
Making your steps a top priority will help you find more ways to get creative with your walking. Perhaps you could take the stairs instead of the elevator, or do a lap of the office every hour. You could even challenge your colleagues to a step competition to make it more fun!
2. Move your head and shoulders
If you’re sitting in front of a computer all day, this one will be a much-needed relief for your body. To keep your muscles relaxed and prevent them from stiffening up, try to shrug your shoulders and tilt your head from side to side every so often.
Keep your movements slow and controlled, more like a nice stretch than an explosive movement. Move your shoulders in a circular motion or up and down, and move your right ear towards your right shoulder. Repeat on your left side.
3. Tap your toes
Tapping your toes is one of those little movements that can be done easily while you work. And since it’s under your desk, no one will even notice!
Every hour or so, wiggle your toes and tap them up and down to help increase your circulation and get the blood flowing - it’ll give your leg muscles a workout too.
4. Wall sits
If you really want to up the ante and get your muscles moving, wall sits are a great way to make use of your workspace. You can pick a wall anywhere around you and get started.
Simply lean your back against the wall and slide down so you’re in a sitting position. Hold that position for 30 seconds to start with, and you can slowly build it up. It sounds easy, but it’s a bit harder than it looks!
Staying active during the cooler months doesn’t have to mean running every day or lifting weights at the gym after work. Even the smallest of movements can have a positive effect on your health.
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