Change work: moving more at work

Did you know that more than half of Flemish workers don't get enough exercise?

Stretching your legs between work hours gives you more energy and productivity. Have you ever heard of shift work? No! Don't worry, you'll find information about it below.

What is shift work?

Shift work was created by the Flemish Institute for Healthy Living and aims to motivate employees not to sit for long periods and to get up regularly.

The benefits of sufficient physical activity

Every half hour spent standing has a positive impact on physical health: fat burning accelerates, but the body is also protected against cardiovascular disease, diabetes and back problems are less likely to occur. In addition, mental energy increases, which ensures better concentration and more productive working hours.

If you sit for long periods of time, the body's metabolism stops. This is similar to when you sleep and your body goes into a state of rest.

Studies have shown that 79% of workers who have tried shift work feel it is possible to implement it in the workplace.

Tips for moving more

We've provided a series of simple tips for introducing more exercise into your daily routine:

• Set a timer that reminds you every 30 minutes to get up for a moment.

• Your phone goes off? Get up and walk around a bit while you talk on the phone.
• Need to print something? Opt for a printer in the far corner of the office.
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Cut down on the number of emails and step up to your colleague a little more often.
• Do a few small exercises in between: 10 squats, 10 lunges...
• Have short standing meetings.
• At times, work standing at a desk.

Above all, look for balance: alternate enough sitting with movement, but do not stand exclusively. If you do, you will slouch and be more likely to suffer from back and neck pain.

Get involved! 

Convince your co-workers, be the person who encourages the exchange in the workplace! The film below, made by the Flemish Institute for Healthy Living, will help you convince your colleagues. Good luck!

Will you take part ?