We came across a great article in yesterday’s Irish Daily Star, on how to stay healthy while sitting down at work! A desk-job workout, if you will… Many people work long hours behind their desk just to make ends meet. Stress, convenience foods, and a forced sedentary lifestyle can wreak havoc on your health and your waistline. A recent study of working women showed those who sat for up to seven hours a day were much more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

Follow these desk-job fitness tips, to help you stay healthy…

Tip 1 - During work phone calls, try standing up and gently “pottering” around your desk! It is estimated that standing burns up to 30% more calories than sitting.

Tip 2 -  If you live within a reasonable distance of work, ride your bike or walk to work for added exercise.  For extra added exercise try to take the stairs at least part of the way. Train yourself to do one extra flight per week.

Tip 3 - Try to ditch the email, and talk to colleagues directly. It could ward off the aches and pains of poor posture by getting up every 30 minutes or so to stretch or walk.

Tip 4 -  Keep your home desk and the office refrigerator stocked with healthy snacks that will help you curb cravings and avoid temptations at the vending machine and office parties.

Tip 5 - To work your abdominal muscles, hold your stomach for a few seconds when breathing in, then release when breathing out. If possible, get some fresh air in your lungs by taking a walk outside