As a writer, I spend a fair share of each workday sitting (slouching, really) in front of a computer. I regularly fight the urge to indulge in my coworker's candy dish-a battle I usually lose during that midafternoon lull. Then, I spend the rest of the day feeling guilty and uninspired.
More and more, desk jobs are taking a toll on Americans. It would appear the only upside to our increasingly sedentary occupations is the coining of terms like "desk potato" and "deskercise." As silly as it sounds, the latter of the two may actually provide substantial solutions to some of our workplace woes.
Julian Kaufman, BA HES/M.ED/NSCA-CSCS and owner of Fitness Together is a huge proponent of fitness in the workplace.
He recommends getting up from your desk once an hour and taking a brisk five- minute walk. "Taking a five-minute walk, eight times a day equals 40 minutes of exercise. It adds up," he says.
Easy exercises you can do at your deskKaufman also suggests using break time for body weight exercises: pushups, sit-ups, etc. Or, replacing your seat with a stability ball and asking your superiors about a stand-up work station. But, Kaufman adds, "A lot of it depends on the workplace and culture and what superiors are willing to allow."
"When calendaring your work day, calendar in your exercise like you would an appointment," says Kaufman. "Planning ahead is really important."
It is also important to plan ahead in regards to snacking. According to Kaufman, fruits and nuts are ideal snacks to keep on hand. Fruits can help satisfy your sweet tooth while nuts help you feel full faster. Also, stock your area with herbal teas or ice water as thirst is sometimes mistaken for hunger.
But what about when Susan sends out a firm-wide email announcing the freshly baked Snickerdoodles on her desk? Simply steer clear. Divert your walking route around that area to help avoid temptation.
Perhaps your newly discovered self-discipline will help drive you over that afternoon hump. Or, perhaps you still need a boost of encouragement.
"The research is clear," says Kaufman. "Businesses that allow some recreational time for employees or time for their employees to be active together show an increase in productivity."
So invite a coworker on that brisk walk. It is important to remember that part of staying well in the workplace means maintaining healthy relationships with your colleagues.
So don't tap your toes too loudly. Don't snub your nose too hard at those Snickerdoodles. You must play well in order to stay well.