3 Ideas To Promote Activity In The Workplace
Research shows that getting just 10 percent of the Canadian adult population to sit less and move more could result in savings to the healthcare system and boost the Canadian economy by a whopping $7.5 billion by the year 2040. * However, only one in five adults meets the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week, and the majority of Canadians lead a predominantly sedentary lifestyle. ** These are hard facts, but there are simple ways that we can encourage activity and movement throughout the workday that can combat sedentary workstyles to create a more balanced, healthy work environment.
Try A Standing Desk
Regular office chairs drain energy and productivity. Being able to stand and move while working can burn calories, improve posture and engage the mind, allowing you to power through your day full of energy. Adding a perch or leaning seat into the mix creates a more comfortable standing desk environment (see number 2).
Add A Perch/Leaning Seat
People often run into barriers when making the transition to a standing desk, finding that standing all day is difficult and that it can become uncomfortable. Perch seating allows you to get the benefits of standing with less of the fatigue. The perching posture provides a neutral neck position, healthy spine movement, core engagement and active leg movement, which helps to keep both body and mind engaged.
Accessorize Ergonomically
A standing desk by itself is an excellent solution, but additional elements can really help achieve sustained comfort and promote activity. Consider equipping yourself with a high-quality anti-fatigue mat or footrest. These devices let you shift your posture during the day, enabling you to stretch your calves, shift your weight and present a clear objective for thoughtful movement. Making small movements and fidgeting are all ways to keep a little more active throughout the day. In addition, proper monitor support and adjustable task lighting will ensure your visual environment is well designed for eye and neck alignment.
* Fares Bounajm, Thy Dinh, and Louis Thériault, Moving Ahead: The Economic Impact of Reducing Physical Inactivity and Sedentary Behaviour (Ottawa: The Conference Board of Canada, 2014).
** John C. Spence and Thy Dinh, Moving Ahead: Taking Steps to Reduce Physical Inactivity and Sedentary Behaviour (Ottawa: The Conference Board of Canada, 2016).