Corporations around the country are requiring people to return to their offices. Employees are still figuring out what these changes mean for their day-to-day. This dramatic change is both a threat and an opportunity to stay active. Ethan Peck, a global PR and communications director based in Salt Lake City, exemplifies the effort many are making to incorporate exercise back into their workdays. He, along with others like Dorothy Beckett, who has successfully navigated a hybrid work schedule, is finding new ways to prioritize physical health amidst changing workplace dynamics.
Beckett, who has flourished in her now five-year long federal government career, previously prospered under a hybrid work model. This worked out perfectly for her situation, as it enabled her to spend two days in the office and three days at home in Maryland. Now, with her workplace returning to full-time in-office work, she is confronted with the challenge of needing to adapt and re-structure her exercise routine. Beckett opened the door further to improving her mental health through exercise, making it a priority each day. She understands the importance of exercise for her physical and mental health.
Her hybrid work schedule allowed her to take a break on one in-office day. On a different day, she participated in an early morning group fun run. Now, as her company has returned to the office full time, she’s got to figure out how to work out around her packed schedule. That typically looks like fitting in movement around her commuting and sedentary work at a desk. Even with these new limitations, Beckett is well aware that the importance of regular exercise is even more essential to managing the stress she feels.
“Although I’m occasionally frustrated by the time constraints on my exercise, I am grateful each day when I finish a workout.” – Dorothy Beckett
To make it easier for employees to be healthy, Beckett’s workplace has implemented a number of programs. Among them are e-bikes for the office, aimed at getting employees outside on their breaks. Plus, her insurance company provides gift cards encouraging wellness activities so employees can spend on what keeps them healthy.
Beyond personal actions, specialists are urging the inclusion of more movement into our everyday lives. Physical therapist, runner, and endurance coach Chris Johnson from Seattle wants you to take regular movement breaks, or “movement snacks” as he calls them. These are quick, 3-5 minute bursts of activity that you can do right at your desk, every 30-60 min. Johnson feels these short sessions improve fitness levels and energy, while allowing them to focus on improving balance.
“Movement snacks are also a good time to work on your balance,” – Chris Johnson
Johnson urges people to work easy stretches into their day. For balance, he suggests a simple exercise of standing on one leg for 30 seconds. Once you’re established then start adding time little by little. Here’s what he has to say about how adding small gym features can make the office a better place to build your fitness routine. Consider adding equipment such as TRX bands or Swiss balls for even more benefits!
As the owner and founder of San Diego Mobile Rehab and Physical Therapy, Raquelle Felder cultivates a necessary discussion on fitness. She encourages everyone to put their health first despite their busy schedules. She believes exercise shouldn’t contribute to a person’s stress and exhaustion, and she advocates for an internalized and balanced approach.
“You don’t have to do everything, every day,” – Raquelle Felder
To inspire people to get moving, Felder wants them to avoid the trap of an “all-or-nothing” approach. From her, you’ll learn that even small things can make a huge difference.
“Some is better than none when it comes to exercise,” – Raquelle Felder
Studies have found that even people who primarily only exercise one day a week or two days a week receive health benefits. This kind of approach is sometimes referred to as an example of a “weekend warrior.” This method can provide significant health benefits similar to more sessions per week of a regularly scheduled, multifrequency program.
Tech companies—first Google, then Microsoft, and many others since—popularized gyms as a self-service employee perk. At the same time, more nimble employers are finding innovative ways to encourage their employees to stay active. The combination of personal initiative and organizational support is proving essential as individuals like Beckett navigate the complexities of returning to traditional office environments.
Leave a Reply