National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day
Getting up every hour or so is a great way to take a short work break, which is an important…
By: Nancy Wagner
Many of us are affected by diabetes or know someone who is. In fact, experts say that diabetes is now an epidemic. But there’s good news: Type 2 diabetes can be managed and even prevented with a more active lifestyle! To help raise awareness of this connection, the American Diabetes Association is sponsoring National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day on Wednesday, May 4, 2016.
Sitting for too long is harmful to our health. Getting up at least every 90 minutes to stretch, walk around the office or do some simple exercises can go a long way in managing and preventing type 2 diabetes. I encourage you to visit the American Diabetes Association’s website for a list of moves you can do at your desk or try some of the following ideas:
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Take the long way to the bathroom or the mail room
- Park farther away from the building
- If you go out to lunch, walk to the restaurant
- Get up and stretch at your desk
Here at Copley Hospital we are challenging our employees to first fill up the parking lot that is farthest away from the hospital. We’ll have some healthy breakfast foods waiting for those that do! And they’ll be entered into a “Get Fit Basket” raffle. We’ll also tour the hospital throughout the day handing out raffle tickets to those we see taking a fitness break.
Happy National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day!
Nancy Wagner is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Certified Diabetes Educator at Copley Hospital. She provides health and wellness to Copley employees through screenings, education and fun activities; educates patients regarding their nutrition and diabetes needs; and works with community members providing education to schools and businesses. Nancy enjoys helping others learn new things about nutrition, their health habits, and their chronic diseases.
I try to get up an move every hour or work standing up for a bit.
I print to the copy machine at work that is the farthest away from my desk. Those few extra steps a day times each trip add up!
My work is relatively sedentary, meaning I sit at my computer a lot! What I have tried to do is each time I make a phone call or read a document, I stand up and pace in my office. I also make several trips to the copier or walk the halls. I do try to take a walk during my lunch break. Walking helps clear my mind and give me energy for the second half of my day.
I try to use my standing desk as much as possible. Also, instead of sending emails to coworkers, I like to walk over and talk to them in person. Every step counts!
Getting up every hour or so is a great way to take a short work break, which is an important part of taking care of yourself to minimize stress and feeling overwhelmed at work.