Posted on June 25, 2016 by Kate Halsall
A large percentage of the population have sedentary jobs. That’s not to say those people don’t work hard, it’s just that they are stationary for a large proportion of their working day. Whilst we know that our metabolism doesn’t ever stop and that we still burn calories whilst we are sat down, is there any way to help to keep your metabolism high at work?
You’ll be glad to know that there is! So here is our list of some of the simplest things that you can do to keep your metabolism high at work and keep those calories burning from the start to the end of the day.
- Exercise in the morning. This will kickstart your metabolism for the day.
- Eat! Surely this is the best message you’ve ever heard! I’m sure you’ll have heard at least one of the following phrases: “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”, “eat 5 small meals a day” or “make sure you snack throughout the day” – well they’re well known phrases for a reason! Your metabolism is working hard when it converts food into fuel – so you need to eat!! Obviously we’re not suggesting stuffing your face with crisps, cake and chocolate – we’re talking protein after your workouts, regular small meals throughout the day, snacking smart on sources of good fats and so on.
- Drink! Keep hydrated and drink lots of water.
- Move. Set an alarm every hour and get out of your seat. Even standing and sitting a couple of times in a row are like doing a few body weight squats. Get up and walk to the toilet, drinks machine, colleagues desk etc etc. Don’t eat at your desk – take a break and get away from your work; it’s not just inactivity which can affect your metabolism, stress can take it’s toll too. Take the stairs not the lifts. Some sources even suggest performing some isometric moves such as glute squeezes, abdominal bracing, pelvic floor, hamstring setting and so on.
These tips to keep your metabolism high at work sound simple because they are! It’s actually easier than you think! Eat well, keep hydrated, keep moving – BOOM!