Unconventional Ways to Incorporate Movement into Office Routines

Woman working from home at standing desk is walking on under desk treadmill
Working from home at standing desk (Image via Getty Images)

Do you know the ways of incorporating movement into office routines? In the modern workplace, sedentary lifestyles have become the norm, leading to a host of health issues and diminished productivity. However, by incorporating movement into office routines, individuals can break free from the shackles of a sedentary workday.

In this article, we explore unconventional and creative ways to infuse physical activity into the office environment, enhancing both productivity and overall well-being.


Ways To Include Movement Into Office Routines

A group of office workers taking part in a stretching exercise by their desks together(Image via Getty Images)
A group of office workers taking part in a stretching exercise by their desks together(Image via Getty Images)

Deskercises for Active Breaks

Transform mundane breaks into opportunities for movement by incorporating "deskercises." These simple exercises can be discreetly performed at your desk and help counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting. From chair squats to desk push-ups, these movements boost circulation, relieve muscle tension, and increase energy levels.


Walking Meetings

Swap conventional meetings for walking meetings to infuse movement and fresh air into the workday. Instead of sitting around a conference table, take a stroll with colleagues while discussing important matters. Walking meetings not only promote physical activity but also foster creativity, collaboration, and improved concentration.


Stand-Up Desks and Active Workstations

Invest in stand-up desks or active workstations that allow for varied positions throughout the day. Standing desks encourage better posture, engage core muscles, and can increase calorie expenditure. For an added boost, consider using a balance board or stability ball as a chair alternative, promoting active sitting and strengthening stability muscles.


Stretching and Yoga Breaks

Introduce short stretching or yoga breaks to release tension and re-energize both the body and mind. Encourage employees to participate in a quick stretching routine or offer guided yoga sessions during lunch breaks. These practices improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and enhance mental clarity, promoting a more focused and productive work environment.


Office Fitness Challenges

Organize office-wide fitness challenges to foster camaraderie and motivation. Create step-count competitions, encourage stair-climbing, or implement friendly exercise challenges. Incorporating gamification elements, such as rewards and recognition, can further boost participation and inspire healthy competition among colleagues.


Active Commuting

Workers doing stretching exercises at the office (Image via Getty Images)
Workers doing stretching exercises at the office (Image via Getty Images)

Encourage employees to choose active modes of commuting whenever possible. Cycling or walking to work not only incorporates physical activity into the daily routine but also reduces carbon emissions and enhances environmental sustainability. Provide secure bike storage facilities and incentivize active commuting through benefits or rewards.


Active Work Breaks

Instead of scrolling through social media or checking emails during breaks, encourage employees to engage in short bursts of physical activity. Offer dedicated spaces for mini-workouts or provide equipment like resistance bands or light dumbbells for quick strength exercises.

These active breaks revitalize both body and mind, increasing energy levels and productivity. This is one of the ways of incorporating movement into office routines.


Movement-Friendly Office Design

Redesign the office layout to promote movement and physical activity. Create open spaces for impromptu stretching or yoga sessions, install standing or walking workstations, and incorporate vibrant and inviting common areas that encourage employees to move and interact. A well-designed office environment can inspire a culture of movement and well-being.


Conclusion

Incorporating movement into office routines is not merely a trend but a transformative shift towards a healthier and more vibrant work environment. By embracing unconventional strategies such as deskercises, walking meetings, and active workstations, organizations have the power to revolutionize the way employees experience their workdays. Beyond the physical benefits of increased activity, these initiatives promote employee engagement, happiness, and overall well-being.

Imagine a workplace where employees eagerly look forward to active breaks, where creative ideas flow freely during walking meetings, and where energy levels remain high throughout the day. By incorporating movement into office routines, fostering a culture of physical activity, and offering opportunities for active breaks and challenges, organizations can unleash the untapped potential of their workforce. The resulting benefits are plenty -- enhanced productivity, reduced absenteeism, improved employee satisfaction, and even a boost in creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Moreover, incorporating movement into office routines sends a powerful message to employees that their health and well-being are valued and prioritized. It creates a supportive and inclusive environment where physical activity is not seen as a distraction but as an integral part of personal and professional growth.

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