30 Jan The health risks of a sedentary job and how to overcome them
When we refer to a sedentary lifestyle, we’re talking about a lifestyle in which someone doesn’t receive regular amounts of physical activity or exercise.
What are the recommendations?
Many health professionals agree that walking 10,000 steps a day, which is approximately 5 miles, is a good goal to set for improving your heath and reducing health risks. It’s documented by the World Health Organisation that 60 to 85 per cent of the population doesn’t get enough exercise. This physical inactivity is linked to back pain and is a key risk factor for diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
The average office job requires a lot of sitting for prolonged periods of time, and that adds to physical inactivity. There are many types of operator chair available, and with some adjustment, they could serve you well.
What has changed?
Technology over the last few decades has enabled us to do some great things, but it also means lifestyles have changed. Sedentary jobs have increased by 83 per cent since the 1950s, while the more active roles in a workforce take up around 25%. Our average week is longer, and time spent resting and looking after ourselves is shorter. It is now more important than ever as we live longer to preserve what we can of our physical health; one way to do this is by making use of an operator chair at work.
Built to improve aches and pains caused by inactivity, there are some that you must remain active on whilst you sit; this increases metabolism and stiffness in our joints and helps us to improve our physical activity, leading to a healthier lifestyle. You could also make sure that you are taking regular breaks from work. Even if you’re just getting up and walking to the water cooler, it all helps. For every half an hour of sitting, experts recommend you get up and walk for a few minutes. If this isn’t possible, make sure you’re getting up for a drink or to stretch your limbs. Suitable operator chairs for staff can be found here with more information on how to improve your working day.
There are many ways you can make a difference in overcoming the risks of a sedentary job.
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