How To Get More Exercise When You Work In An Office

When asked why they don’t have time to exercise, many people say that their job keeps them seated most of the day, and when they get home, they have so many other things to do that exercise is often the last thing on their mind. If this is your excuse as well, let’s first get it straight that it is a weak one.

Yes, there are so many things that require your time, but if you don’t take an effort to lead a more active lifestyle, you are going to regret it down the line when your habits take a toll on your health. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get more exercise even while you're at work, including:

1. Taking periodic breaks throughout the day to stretch, or even take a very short walk. These small amounts of exercise will add up over the day.

2. Investing in a standing desk so that you will be on your feet instead of sitting down the whole working day. A standing desk is a desk that at the right height only when you stand up.

Amazon.com: LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill Desk (2013 Model). (Photo credit: Wickerfurniture)

3. Getting a treadmill desk for a more vigorous workout at your desk. A treadmill desk is similar to a standing desk, but additionally you will be standing on top of a treadmill, of which you can adjust the speed. (For more on how much this simple addition can really change your health and your life, see Dr. James Levine's excellent book, Move a Little, Lose a Lot.)

4. If you often park near the office entrance, try to park a little bit further so that you will have to walk a little before you reach your office. Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs instead when you need to get from one floor to another. If you are taking a call, stand up and walk around while you attend to the call.

Additionally, try your best to schedule exercise at least three times a week outside office hours. If you can’t afford a gym, invest in some exercise DVDs or just go for a jog around your neighborhood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-paced activity every time you exercise outside working hours. Check our website, and keep an eye on this blog, for some other fun ways to exercise as well.

With these simple steps, you can easily sneak some extra exercise into your day, throughout the day. The benefits of exercise are well worth the effort; you’ll have a slimmer, fitter, and healthier body if you manage to keep up a more active lifestyle. Couple your newfound exercise habits with a healthy, nutritious diet, and you will feel better than you ever have felt in years. Just give it a try, you certainly have nothing to lose (other than some excess weight), but lots of benefits to gain!