Fit at your desk
Sitting for long periods of time is considered extremely unhealthy, and sitting is often referred to as the "new smoking". What is the truth behind the bad reputation of sitting? And how can "desk workers" get more exercise in the office?
One problem with sitting is the one-sided strain on the back, shoulders and neck. The abdominal and back muscles become slack, and the constant pressure causes the intervertebral discs, which act as a buffer between the vertebrae, to become thinner and thinner. But sitting for long periods also puts a strain on the circulation because the blood stays in the legs.
Variety is key
What counts is variety. Whether standing or sitting - staying in one position for too long is unhealthy. Do you mainly sit at work? Then stand up briefly every now and then or work standing up for periods. This relieves the strain on your spine and stimulates circulation and blood flow to the brain. Want to bet that you'll feel fresher straight away?
Put to the test: a pop-up standing desk made of cardboard
For working while standing, I recommend the Monkey Desk standing desk from Roominabox. All it takes is two simple steps and it is ready for use on the desk or kitchen table. It can then be easily folded flat again and waits behind the cupboard for its next use. It is particularly useful in the home office, because who has space for a separate standing desk? Monkey Desk is made of cardboard and is available in two heights and three colors (natural brown, black, petrol). It costs 35 euros. The manufacturer Roominabox, a small Berlin-based company, also sells beds and whiteboards in addition to the standing desks.
Move more often: 7 tips
- Take every opportunity to exercise and, for example, visit colleagues directly instead of calling or writing emails.
- Hold shorter meetings standing up - this also has the advantage of getting to the end more quickly.
- Spring is here: if possible, cycle to work or get off the bus or subway one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way.
- Stand up to make a phone call or think - for even more movement, you can shift your weight from one leg to the other when standing.
- Leave the elevator to the left and use the stairs.
- Sitting still is out, fidgeting is allowed - change your sitting posture regularly, use the possibilities of the desk chair and rock or turn.
- Stretch again and again.