Ideas For a Heart Healthy Spring

Most of us know that being physically active on a daily basis supports better heart health. Sitting all day or even for several hours in a row can be detrimental to our health. Just Google “sitting is killing you” for a list of recent articles on the subject!

Unfortunately, many of us have jobs that are rather sedentary, and our work takes up a great part of the day. So, what can you do to increase your physical activity during your work day?

How about…..

• Ask a colleague or two to be your wellness partner. Encourage each other and hold each other accountable for following through on your wellness plans such as exercise and eating more heart healthy.
• Instead of using email, Lync, or the phone, create a habit of getting up and walking down the hall to talk with colleagues on a more regular basis. Not only does it get you moving, your relationships just might improve with some additional face time!
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Or get off a few floors early and take the stairs the rest of the way.
• Park in a lot/garage farther from your building than necessary. Take the long way around to your office.
• Get off the bus a few blocks early and walk the rest of the way to work or home.
• Walk around your building for a break during the work day or during lunch and invite some colleagues to join you.
• Create a staff/faculty intramural team through Dedman Center or put a team together to compete in a community league.
• Join Dedman Center for only $10 per month. Check out their offerings for water aerobics , Wellpower and Group X classes. Just want to walk? 6.5 laps around the track equals 1 mile!
• Schedule exercise time on your business calendar and treat it as any other important appointment. Take your health as seriously as you do your work!
• Join our Heart Walk community team team and walk with us on September 8, 2012!
• Participate in Wellpower activities such as Wellpower Walks, and the “One Step at a Time” walking challenge.

References: American Heart Association and WebMD

Questions? Email wellpower@smu.edu