In 1960, one out of two jobs required moderate physical activity; today only one in five do. The other 80% of the American workforce remains sedentary all day. The shift means that the average worker is burning 120 to 140 fewer calories a day at work. [via USA Today]
At the Y, we are determined to help you live a healthier lifestyle. We asked Wellness Director, Kelly Prather, for tips on staying healthy while working a sedentary job. Here are a few more tips:- Stair climbing - Instead of taking the elevator use the stairs. You could lose 150 calories in 10 minutes of stair climbing.
- Personal delivery - Visit your co-worker and chat face-to-face. This allows you to burn more calories and network.
- Snack healthy - Along with a healthy lunch eat 1 -2 healthy snacks during your workday. Change up your routine and eat yogurt instead of that candy bar in the vending machine.
- Compensate - Since you work a sedentary job, you still need exercise. Burn calories and relieve stress at your closest Y.
To cut your risk of health problems such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease, plan short activity breaks into your workday. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a minimum of 10 minutes of moderate- or vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise is enough to get your heart pumping and burn calories, so aim for at least three 10-minute walking breaks during the day. [via Livestrong.com]
If you want to learn more about how you can feel better during your workday, call the closest Y location to you and we will set you up with a wellness coach.