Tread Carefully: The Benefits of Treadmill Desks
If you’re like most Canadians, you spend a majority of your time sitting in front of a screen at a desk. And when you’re not at work, we bet you’re probably sitting somewhere else. After all, Canadian adults between the ages of 18 and 79 spend an average of almost 10 hours a day (not including sleep) sitting. Females spend more time not engaging in physical activity, and a whopping 85% of the population does not meet physical exercise guidelines (150 minutes of exercise a week).
If you’ve worried about the health impact that your sedentary lifestyle is having but you don’t have the time to work out on a consistent basis, you’ll want to consider treadmill desks. Treadmill desks are exactly what they sound to be—a treadmill specifically meant to fit in an office, under a desk. The desk is specially made to fit over the treadmill and is adjustable for the user’s height. The user simply turns the treadmill on and walks while they work. You won’t go jogging or do strenuous activity, but you’ll be able to fit in more walking time into your day—and that’s vastly important for your health.
It takes most people a few days to get used to working and walking at the same time, but the health benefits outweigh the initial discomfort. Regular physical activity is linked to maintaining a healthy weight, reduced stress levels and symptoms of depression, increased energy, stronger muscles, bones, joints, heart, lungs, and circulatory system, and a better quality of life. Squeezing in a few minutes at work—or a few hours, depending on your schedule—can help make all of the difference in the world. In addition, if you’re suffering from chronic health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure, walking regularly can help reduce your symptoms and discomfort and help you manage your condition.
Excited to try it out? Check out Amazon for their pricing and shipping options. There are options that fit nearly every price range. If you hate the look of the plastic desks, there are wooden options as well as accessories that fit on your treadmill desk to make sure that your items are securely attached and won’t fall. And if you’re still unsure if a treadmill desk is right for you, here are two great articles to read to help you make your decision: Replace your Desk with a Treadmill Desk and The Treadmill Desk.
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