Anyone who works in an office knows how easy it is to put on weight—between snacking in the break room and not having time to exercise, shedding a few pounds can seem impossible. But it shouldn’t be like that! With a few simple tips, you can make every day healthy and start shedding those stubborn office pounds.
1. Get Up When You Can
Many office jobs involve sitting at a desk for hours on end, but you can combat the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle by getting up whenever you can. Instead of sitting, get up when you’re on the phone and change your desk chair to a standing chair. If you can’t invest in a new piece of furniture just yet, stack some books on top of an existing chair to lift yourself up. Even if you can only walk for a few minutes at a time, getting up and changing positions is good for your body and your metabolism.
2. Take Lunch Breaks Outdoors
Take advantage of the warm season and spend your lunch break outdoors. If you have an outdoor area near your office, go for a walk or even practice some yoga poses. If you don’t have access to outdoor space, take a walk or jog around the block during lunch and come back with enough time to rest before returning to work. Fresh air is not only good for the body, but also allows you to get away from the office and clear your mind.
3. Drink Plenty Of Water
It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to lose weight is to drink lots of water. Studies have shown that people who drink water before meals tend to consume fewer calories and far more fiber than those who don’t. Drinking water not only makes you feel full but also helps flush toxins from your body and speeds up your metabolism.
4. Eat Healthy Snacks During Breaks
It’s nearly impossible to avoid snack boxes and office vending machines, but you can make healthier choices if you plan ahead. Before starting your day, fill a container with a handful of pre-portioned healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, and granola bars. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be making healthier choices throughout the day.
5. Park As Far Away As Possible
Instead of looking for the parking space closest to your office, go a little further by parking further away. It may seem like a small step, but those extra steps add up quickly — plus the extra walking will help boost your metabolism, which translates into more calories burned.
6. Wake up with a cup of coffee
There is something about the smell of a good cup of coffee that can help you feel energized and motivated for the day ahead. But instead of getting a latte with sugar, opt for a cup of plain black coffee. Not only will you get the same energy boost, but you’ll also consume fewer calories.
7. Train With A Training Partner
It may seem like a daunting task to manage your training schedule based on your job responsibilities, but having a training partner can make a huge difference. If you can find someone in the office who wants to get in shape, you can brainstorm together and come up with a plan that works for both of you. Working together is not only a great motivation to stay on the right track, but also a great way to get closer.
8. Use Free Fitness Apps And Programs
If you can’t find a workout partner in the office, there are plenty of free fitness apps and programs, many of which you can use from your office. Simple exercises like standing up and placing your feet on a table, stretching, or using resistance bands are all great options to start a quick workout.
9. Reward yourself for reaching your goals
Sometimes it’s hard to maintain an exercise regimen, especially if you don’t have the ability to take charge. That’s why it’s important to set realistic goals and reward yourself for reaching them. Whether it’s a massage, a new pair of shoes, or even a healthy smoothie, rewarding yourself will keep you motivated to keep exercising even on days you don’t feel like exercising.
Weight loss doesn’t have to be impossible while you’re at the office! With these 9 tips, you can make every day healthy and start your weight loss journey right in the office. Remember to plan ahead, stay hydrated, and reward yourself for hitting your goals, and you’ll be an office fitness guru in no time.
