How to work out at work: fitness expert Jeff Woods weighs in
Fitness expert Jeff Woods says even desk jockeys need to train for the job
A walk from your cubicle to the water cooler may the biggest workout of your day.
But fitness expert Jeff Woods says you don't have to be a professional athlete to train for your job.
Most modern jobs are sedentary, says Woods, a long-time personal trainer and fitness lifestyle commentator on the Canadian Learning Channel. Whether tethered to a desk or a computer screen, office workers spend most of their time in a chair.
"It pulls your body out of alignment and it can have some crippling effects."
Neck pain, tight hips and strained shoulders are common trouble spots for desk jockeys. Woods, co-owner of Custom Fit, a personal training gym in Edmonton, says basic stretches and exercises that target the lower back can help prevent these aches and pains.
People who spend a lot of time standing, including retail clerks, teachers, hair stylists and health care workers, often suffer from lower back, neck and foot pain. Woods says they should strengthen their core and ankles with exercises such as squats and lunges.
It's not just desk workers who should limber up for the job. Woods says manual labour jobs such as construction, farming, and landscaping can have your body working overtime in all the wrong ways. These workers are more prone to long-term injuries and should do a full body warm-up before they clock in for the day.
As for that walk to the water cooler. Although Woods says it certainly shouldn't be your only form of exercise, it actually helps office workers stay limber. Jeff suggests that getting up from your desk for a quick walk every 30 minutes can help you feeling limber.
"The average athlete applies scientific training principles to be very specific about their needs aerobically and physically, so they can optimize their performance and reduce the risk of injury. And your job is no different."