Why Movement Matters
Sitting or standing in place for hours at a time? Research shows that staying stationary – whether sitting or standing – for long periods of time can be bad for your health. Our bodies are built to move, and doing so for approximately three minutes every 30-60 minutes can help us feel our best.
Once you start moving, you’ll notice:
- Increased energy
- A clearer mind
- Improved mood
- Higher metabolism
- Increased blood flow
- Improved posture
Easy Ways to Move More at Work
What can you do in approximately three minutes? A lot! Check out these short Time to Move videos for more movement and stretch ideas!
More Ways to Move at Work
- Go to the printer/copier/fax more often during the workday
- Do stretching exercises. Try these:
- If you work in a call center or take a phone call while sitting at your desk, take the call standing or follow the call with one of the stretches shown above.
- Talk with a colleague in person instead of sending an email or calling on the phone
- Use the stairs instead of the elevator or take the longer route to the restroom or lunchroom
- Move often during meetings
- When on a break, plan an activity like a walk or stretching
- Walk, jog, or move in place
Tips to Help You Remember
The hardest part might be simply remembering to move approximately three minutes every 30-60 minutes. Here are some tips to help:
- Set an alarm using your Google or Outlook calendar
- Use the alarm or timer on your watch or mobile device
- Use your clock as a reminder – move every time the minute hand is on the 6 and 12
- Remember "the best position is the next position"