In the city there’s only a lucky few who work jobs that keep us active. Many of us (including myself) sit behind a desk for 8 hours or more each day. I wouldn’t change it because I love working in a law firm. However, as I’m looking to drop a few kilos before summer, I want to make the most of the time I have to MOVE!
I often fall into the trap of thinking, if it’s not a vigorous workout that will shift some serious calories; it’s not worth it. This is a LIE. What I didn’t understand was the impact light to moderate exercise can have on your metabolism. Moving throughout the day keeps your metabolism from dropping, meaning you continue to burn energy and subsequently maintain weight loss. So don’t be fooled, little changes can help make big changes, both on the scales and more importantly, to your general health.
Here’s my top 3 ways to move more at work:
- Active transport – Yes, this may mean an earlier start to your day but change is needed to make a healthy transformation! Some ideas:
- Ride, walk or run if possible; or
- If public transport or a car is required, get off a stop early or park a block away, who knows, you might even save some coin!
- Walk with purpose
- Walk when on phone – be a pacer! Not only do you look intent but you also add a whole heap of extra steps to your day. Get a headset or utilise hands free.
- Walk to colleagues’ desks instead of phoning them (colleagues – if you’re reading this, you have permission to tell me to get off my butt, leave my office and come and see you!).
- Locate the bin, printer and scanner away from desk so you need to walk to them.
- Use the stairs rather than the lift.
- Have walking meetings – not practical for all meetings, but team meetings would be great like this. You would be surprised how much someone will open up on a walk, which is great for team building.
- Use lunch time wisely
- Keep a yoga mat in your office (use for yoga, Pilates or stretching – YouTube videos are great if you want some guidance!);
- Walk during lunch (walk to get your healthy lunch, walk around the block or a nearby park – yes I’ve rocked the sneakers and suit look, which I swore I never would!);
- Footy in the park – grab some mates and hit the sun. More than one is always more fun!
Print this list to remind you and I promise if you eat well and keep up at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, you’ll see changes by summer!
Images via here, here and here.
Amy Darcy
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