In today’s full-fledged digital era, many jobs which were once reliant on physical labor to get the job done now use robotics and advanced systems, allowing tasks to be completed with a touch on a screen or the push of a button.
This transition in workplace labor has led to an epidemic of sedentary lifestyles among workers as millions of employees sit in front of a computer for hours a day as an expected part of their job. If this is typical of your line of work, then you may have become aware that this type of sedentary lifestyle comes with its own set of health risks. Prolonged hours in front of a screen can lead to a range of health issues, from strained eyes to back pain, not to mention the long-term risks such as heart disease and diabetes.
A Snapshot of Sedentary Health Risks
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Sitting is the new smoking.” Research indicates that a sedentary lifestyle can lead to health problems, starting with discomfort commonly overlooked by desk workers. Prolonged sitting can cause various issues including:
● Increased risk of metabolic problems, such as obesity and diabetes
● A higher likelihood of heart disease and cancer
● A decline in mental health, from increases in anxiety to depression
● Muscular complications like stiff necks, back pain, and joint problems
Scientists continue to unearth the concerning truth about sedentary work, but with knowledge comes power and the power to shift our behavior to counteract these risks.
Deskercise: Active Solutions for a Sedentary Dilemma
To combat this sedentary “norm” of the typical desk job, you can take action and turn your desk into a mini gym with a trendy new form of exercise that allows you to stay at your desk.
It’s called deskercise. It’s about working out while you work—doing quick exercises to stay nimble and active. At GlobalConnect®, we focus on integrating wellness into daily routines, and deskercise is a great way to keep fit without disrupting work. Here are five deskercise activities to help you stay agile:
1. Seated Leg Lifts: Sit upright with core engaged; lift one leg off the floor, and hold for 3 counts, then switch legs. Repeat 10 reps each leg.
2. Desk Push-Ups: Stand at arm’s length from desk, hands on edge, and lower your chest to desk and push back up. Aim for 15 reps with good form.
3. Seated Torso Twists: While seated, twist left hand to right knee, hold and repeat on each side for 10 reps.
4. The Invisible Chair: Stand against a wall, mimic sitting position and hold for 30 seconds to engage thigh muscles.
5. March in Place: Lift knees high while marching in place; keep going during phone calls for a bit of cardio.
Being inactive at work is not a requirement; you can make a change and break free from the sedentary lifestyle. The solution lies in integration—integrating small bursts of activity throughout the day using deskercise. If you have a desk job, then maybe it’s time to take charge of your health and get moving, and make deskercise a part of your everyday work life. Your body will thank you for it.