While many health experts suggest aiming for 10,000 steps a day can significantly improve your health, it may seen impossible for those of us stuck behind a desk. Sitting down all day is never good for your health, but there’s not much you can do if your job is largely sedentary.
However, that’s not to say you should give up! Here are nine ways that you can sneak in more steps in order to hit that 10,000 count. Just remember, every step counts!
Okay, we know you’ve heard this countless times before, but how many of us diligently climb those stairs when the escalator’s right beside it? Try exclusively climbing the stairs for one day – no lifts, no escalators – and see how much of a difference it makes to your total step count. The numbers will likely push you to keep going. At the very least, make it a point to walk up or down the escalator instead of just cruising.
While waiting for a friend to arrive, go window shopping instead of standing around and using your phone. This way, you’ll be able to scout out the best deals and burn a few extra calories while you’re at it.
It’s easy to get carried away while doing work, but make it a point to get up and move about every hour or so. Make yourself a cup of coffee, refill your water bottle or go to the washroom. These little trips will all contribute towards your step count.
While watching TV, get extra steps in by walking in place instead of slumping on your sofa. You could just step side to side or get some high knees in if you want to work up a sweat.
Mop the floor, wipe your kitchen counters or pack the storeroom – chores have to be done anyway, and you’ll be surprised by how many steps you rack up just by pottering about the house.
Instead of heading to town on the weekend, take some time to walk around your neighbourhood. Try that new café that just opened or stroll through the nearby park. Grab the children – or fur kid – to join you for extra motivation.
When trying to solve a problem, give yourself room to pace instead of just sitting at your desk. You can also pace while waiting for traffic lights to change, or when you’re waiting for the bus.
Spend an afternoon immersing yourself in culture and history. Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) can enjoy free admission to eight museums and heritage institutions in Singapore. These include the National Museum of Singapore, Singapore Art Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum and the National Art Gallery. Click here for more information.
While it’s always nice to drive or be driven, you’ll definitely clock way more steps by taking the bus or train. For starters, you could make it a point to commute via public transport once a week or whenever you’re travelling short distances. For an even greater challenge, alight from buses one stop early and walk the remaining distance to your destination!
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Text: Dawn Chen, SHAPE / Additional text: Cheryl Lim