We’re always being told to #SitLess and #MoveMore and tomorrow (APRIL 29) desk based workers across the UK are being encouraged to participate in a variety of fun and simple activities as part of On Your Feet Britain.
The day is a fun and free way to reboot and energise your workplace habits.
Research shows that regular movement throughout the day leads to:
- Better health
- Increased motivation
- Improved concentration
- And many, many more wellbeing and performance benefits
Make some simple changes - it’s easier than you think:
- Stand during phone calls
- Stand and take a break from your computer every 30 minutes
- Use the stairs more
- Arrange standing or walking meetings
- Eat your lunch away from your desk
- Walk to a colleague's desk instead of phoning or emailing them
- Stand at the back of the room during presentations.
Rebecca Tiffen, Specialist MSK Physiotherapist at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “On Your Feet Britain is a great way to help raise awareness and encourage people to sit less at work. There are some great tips to help you on their website.
‘’ Being still and sitting too long in any posture is not good for us in so many ways such as its impact on muscle strength, joint and bone health and circulation.
‘‘Being generally more active can have a significant positive impact on our overall health. ‘’
“Evidence is increasing that indicates that unless you are a wheelchair user, sitting down too much can be a risk to your health. Studies have linked being inactive with being overweight and/or obese, type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer and early death.
“If we look at type 2 diabetes as an example, it costs the NHS £8.8bn a year. Then there is the human cost as it can lead to life changing complications. Some diabetic risk factors come from our genetics however many risk factors are preventable including obesity, lack of exercise, a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet.
“The above example shows that by making simple changes such as sitting less and moving more, not only can we improve our own quality of life, we can also help reduce the pressure and cost on the NHS.”
“There is also lots of really useful information and links on the NHS website giving you ideas on ways to increase your mobility as well as guidelines on activity levels.”
This year workers are being encouraged to sign up to get active for the #BigWiggle – wherever you may be.