If you’re reading this at your desk, chances are you are one of the three in four office workers who spend too much time sitting down during the working day.
According to AXA PPP healthcare, the health effects of a sedentary work life can hit employees hard in the long run. Jan Vickery, head of clinical operations cites heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancers and poor mental health as being linked to sedentary behaviour, for a start, so it’s important that employers introduce easy ways for their staff to keep mobile to maintain a healthy workforce. “Whether your employees work from home, or in an office, employers can make small introductions into the workplace to help employees stay active,” she says.
Vickery’s top tips to help businesses keep their employees mobile at work, include these six hacks.
Walking Meetings
Recent research has found that the act of walking leads to increases in creative thinking, and there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence which suggests that walking meetings lead to more honest exchanges with employees and are more productive than traditional sit-down meetings.
Taking regular breaks – Frequent short breaks are better than a few long ones, and gives muscles a chance to relax. Where possible, try to encourage employees to take regular breaks from their screens, such as getting a drink, going for some fresh air, filing or photocopying.
Standing desks
A recent report by the NHS found that standing for more than two hours a day at work was found to lower the risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers.
Ergonomic workstations
Sitting for too long can contribute to back and neck pain so employers should introduce ergonomic workstations to help employees feel as comfortable as possible at their desks.
Healthy perks
The obvious benefit of having a healthy workforce is that healthier employees are absent less often. Healthy workers are more motivated to stay in work, recover from sickness quicker and are at less risk of long term illness. By promoting good health among workers and creating a positive environment for work, you could reduce employee turnover and recruitment costs. Benefits also include higher productivity and business performance as well as increased staff morale and employee engagement.
Flu jabs
Seasonal Flu is one of the biggest causes of short term illness. It is highly contagious and can affect people of all ages, so offering flu vaccinations is a simple and cost-effective way to help to keep your employees healthy.
This infographic from AXA PPP Healthcare explains more.
