How standing and moving more at work can improve your health, fitness and your life

Moving at work can change your life

Imagine a world where you become healthier and stronger simply by going to work. Is it possible?

Physical inactivity is the new challenge of the modern world, and with a work-around-the-clock mentality, it’s almost unavoidable to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. The onset of Covid-19 has added a further layer to this in that many of us who work at a desk are now required to work remotely from home. No longer do we have the morning commute into work, we essentially have the option to roll out of bed and get started! Work hours have in fact become longer, as we trade the commute time for work time. And with many cities experiencing lockdown there is limited time outdoors resulting in less movement throughout the day. 

To counteract this, unfortunately, a daily session of intensive exercise alone doesn’t quite cut it when you’re sitting all day long. In fact, adults on average sit for 11+ hours a day. Our bodies are telling us this is too much. And research has now proven that several health problems that are on the rise globally are linked to a lack of movement. There must be a solution.

We believe it’s time for change!

Our Bodies Thrive With Movement

The human body is not designed to sit all day, our anatomical and biomechanical structure was created to move and be active regularly. We need to keep our body active to maintain optimal mobility and good health for years to come.

Working at a desk doesn’t mean you need to be seated all day. It’s possible to take your health into your own hands and increase your productivity, vitality and wellbeing while you work, with virtually no extra effort.

Try these simple tips.

Communicate In Person
When in the office, rather than send another email, jump up from your seat and chat to your colleagues face to face. Not only will you bring more movement into your day, you also have the added benefit of creating better relationships with your team.

When at home, rather than taking a phone call sitting down, go for a short walk or step outside each time you make a call. If you need to be in front of computer for the call, choose to stand up while you take calls to shift your body from being seated all day.

Hold Walking Meetings
Have you considered doing meetings on the move? Walking meetings allow you to get out in the fresh air and connect with your co-workers. The change of scenery stimulates creativity, and improves communication; as you’re less distracted by technology and more focused on the topic at hand. The increased blood flow also helps you express your ideas more clearly.

Take Regular Movement Breaks
While it may seem counterproductive if you have a lot on your plate, leaving your phone at home and going for a short 5 minute walk or taking time out to refresh not only gets your body moving, but it will also improve your clarity and focus, making you more productive on your return. 

Standing Improves Your Mood And Energy Levels
Think about investing in a standing desk. Studies show that 87% of people using one report they feel more energised and invigorated during their day, simultaneously counteracting anxiety and stress levels. A standing desk helps you move more during the day without feeling the need to stop and start your work.  

Standing Is Empowering
The physical act of standing is a powerful pose, that gives you a more positive state of mind, increasing confidence and a sense of freedom while you’re working. Standing also decreases your cortisol levels, which lowers stress and helps you feel more in control of your day.

The benefits of standing and moving while you work are overwhelmingly positive and every little bit helps towards improving your health. While it’s a relatively new way of working and may seem a little daunting to take on these changes, you can make small, incremental improvements over time.

Try engage your team at work to join you. Create positive changes to your workday together, motivate and encourage each other. It’s all for improved health and wellbeing.

Learn more about improving your health while you work in our eBook, ‘The Sitting Epidemic’, by MOVI's Co-Founder, Daniel Angelini.


Have a healthy and happy workday,

Daniel & Team MOVI