Pre-covid — most of us were reluctant to explore the idea of remote work. But post-covid, the majority of us just love it! And it’s primarily because of the liberty it offers. You’ve complete control over your time.
But the liberty also comes with some costs — such as a sedentary lifestyle. Our physical activity has significantly reduced and this can potentially lead to lifelong health problems.
On that note, here in this post, we’ll share five workspace items that can help you stay fit even as you work. Pick one (or maybe all five!) to start living a healthier life!
Standing Desk
A standing desk is a versatile workstation designed to provide a healthier alternative to the traditional sitting desk. Unlike a regular desk, you can adjust this desk in height. This allows you to switch between a seated and standing position with ease.
Apart from convenience, standing desks offer numerous health benefits. Studies show that using a standing desk can help reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Another study conducted by the University of Iowa found that alternating between sitting and standing at a desk can lead to a 10% increase in productivity.
This ergonomic solution combats the sedentary lifestyle that comes with office work and helps:
- Promote movement
- Improve posture
- Alleviate back and neck pain
- Improve circulation
- Enhance energy levels
Users can also enjoy greater focus and alertness while working, as opposed to the lethargy often associated with prolonged sitting.
Under Desk Treadmill
Under desk treadmill is one of the most trending fitness equipment of the present times. And that’s primarily because it adds a unique and health-conscious twist to your traditional office setup.
Structurally, it is compact and fits perfectly well beneath your workspace. You can use it as your work. Or maybe take a mini break to exercise your muscles.
The ability of under desk treadmills to keep you physically active while you work is revolutionary. It ensures that you don’t remain sedentary for extended periods, which can lead to a multitude of health issues.
Since it is a light physical activity, it won’t tire you much. Instead, it will help enhance focus, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. It also helps reduce the likelihood of obesity, cardiovascular problems, and promotes better posture. Furthermore, the increased physical activity can boost your daily step count, improving your cardiovascular health.
Free Weights
Free weights (like dumbbells or kettlebells) are exceptional for strength training. The science behind this is simple: as you increase your muscle mass, you raise your resting metabolic rate, which means you burn more calories even when you’re not working out.
To put this into action, keep your weights nearby and incorporate short workouts during breaks. For example, you can schedule two 15-minute breaks during your 8-9 hour workday.
During this workout session, aim for a mix of exercises that target different muscle groups for a balanced approach. For example, you can incorporate squats, lunges, bicep curls, tricep extensions, and shoulder presses.
Wobble Stool
A wobble stool typically consists of a rounded or saddle-shaped seat mounted on a stable base. The base is engineered to allow the seat to tilt, swivel, or wobble in response to your movements. Some models also come with height-adjustable features. And the average cost of this fitness equipment is around $200 – $600.
It benefits the body in the following ways:
- Improved Posture: A wobble stool prompts you to engage your core muscles and maintain an upright posture, which reduces the risk of slouching and back pain.
- Enhanced Circulation: The constant motion while sitting helps prevent stiffness and encourages better blood circulation.
- Core Strengthening: Subtle movements strengthen your core muscles, which can help alleviate lower back discomfort.
- Increased Focus: Many users find that the slight movements stimulate their alertness and concentration. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to stay attentive during work or study.
To make the most of a wobble stool, sit on it with your feet flat on the floor. Allow yourself to shift and pivot gently as you work. It’s a good idea to start with short sessions and gradually increase the time spent sitting on the stool to build your core strength.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are flexible, elastic bands made of latex or similar materials. They are designed for strength training and physical rehabilitation. They work by providing resistance in both directions of your exercises. And thus, effectively target your muscles.
To put them to use, create a quick, effective exercise routine you can do during short breaks. Stretch and strengthen various muscle groups. They are also great for pre-workout warm-ups and post-workout cool-downs.
Final Words
We hope this guide helped you find your perfect fitness solution. Start with something small and easily manageable. Gradually, incorporate more equipment in your schedule. Or you can dedicate different time slots or days to different types of fitness activities. Good luck!
