A lot of us, myself included, work in an office environment and are sitting at desks all day, Monday through Friday. Staying sedentary during the work week can wreak havoc on your body over time, even if you are finding time to fit in a workout.

That said, there are so many easy ways to stay moving and active during your 9-5 (or whatever hours you find yourself in that desk chair). I hope you can utilize some of these tips to help you and your coworkers combat the sedentary lifestyle offices can sometimes foster. Here are some of my favorite ways to keep moving.

Set a Timer
Might be obvious, but setting a timer either on your watch or computer will help remind you to get up, stretch your legs, and move throughout your day.

If you can, try to set it to go off every hour once you get into work. Getting up out of your desk chair will not only help keep the blood flowing, but it will also help you stay focused on your work and allow for small, frequent breaks.

Take the Stairs
This is one you probably hear a lot, but it’s for a good reason. Make a conscious effort to take the stairs instead of the elevator every chance you get. Work on the 8th floor of your building? Great! Work those quads and glutes on the way up and down from your office.

This goes for life outside the office, too. Take the stairs at the mall, the airport, your apartment building, etc. Take ‘em any and every chance you get – it’s a mindless way to work your legs more than you would have otherwise.

Use Your Lunch Break
Your lunch break can be used for so much more than just eating. Do you have some office mates that want to get active during their workdays, too? Multitask and grab them to go for a walk around the building or block. You can catch up while you move.

Going out for lunch? If you can, walk there instead of driving. Also see tip #5 for more ideas on multitasking during lunch.

Deliver Memos in Person
Instead of shooting off emails that discuss quick topics, try getting up out of your chair and walking to the person’s desk/office to deliver the message in person. You’ll get a chance to talk face to face with someone you might not otherwise have talked to.

This also goes for intra-office phone calls. Go chat with the person face to face and add even more steps to your day. Added bonus if the person works on another floor (refer to tip #2)!

Exercise in Your Office
Think those push ups or planks need to be saved for the gym or fitness class? There’s nothing stopping you from doing a few reps during your workday.

Try adding a few of these tips into your routine each day and stick with it for a few weeks. You just might be surprised to see your mood improve, your focus become more acute, and your overall attitude change for the positive.

*This post was originally published on Ellyn’s blog, In Fitness and In Health. For more from her, visit www.infitinhealth.com 

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