Workplace tips
Healthy, active tips for the workplace:
- Develop a healthy active workplace program
- Organise a lunchtime activity class or a walking group
- Hold a workplace pedometer challenge
- Encourage staff to walk or cycle to work
- Have fruit baskets at the workplace
- Provide healthy options at meetings and social events
Healthy, active tips for you:
- Use your lunch break to do some activity
- Use the stairs instead of the lift
- Hand deliver messages instead of using the phone or email
- Walk or cycle to work or the local bus stop
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Try an activity such as yoga or tai chi for stress management
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables
- Check your posture regularly
- Take quick stretch or walk breaks during the day
People who are active at work are:
Healthier
People who are physically active reduce their risk of developing major chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, strokes, obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), colorectal cancer, stress, anxiety, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and lower-back pain.
Energised
Activity can give you a much-needed pick up, giving you plenty of enthusiasm for leisure time after work.
Better at maintaining their weight
Being active helps increase your metabolism. You burn more energy at work and rest as a result of being active, so it’s great for maintaining or losing weight.
Happier
Activity stimulates endorphins – the ‘happy hormones’ which make you feel good. Everything seems easier and more enjoyable.
More foucused
Even a short activity break helps to re-focus the mind and improves the your ability to concentrate.
Less Stressed
Staying active while you cope with life's ups and downs relaxes the mind and body, and helps to reduce the build-up of tension.
Stronger
Regular activity helps you maintain your strength as you get older. Keeping your bones and muscles strong – including your heart – protects you from disease, accidents and loss of independence.
More immune to illness
Activity boosts the immune system, helping to prevent those irritating illnesses that get you down, and allowing you to enjoy work and play throughout the year.
More confident/have higher self esteem
Many physical activities develop skills, build confidence and help you feel more in control of your life.
More Social
Activities in teams, clubs or leisure centres are great for meeting people outside work and expanding your network of friends.
Activity Tip!
Don't put off doing your daily activity until you’ve finished work. Energise your day with bursts of activity whenever you can.
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