In a modern world where many of us spend prolonged hours seated or hunched over screens, Movement For Better Health holds profound relevance.

The significance of Movement at Work Health and wellness within workplaces are pivotal for both employees and employers. A robust workforce not only amplifies productivity but also witnesses fewer injuries, reduced absenteeism, and an upsurge in morale. Ergonomics, the study of tailoring workspaces, products, and systems to suit their users, constitutes a fundamental component of workplace health.

However, ergonomics is beyond merely using an ergonomic chair or mouse. It delves into comprehending our body mechanics and movements, thereafter aligning our work surroundings accordingly.

The essence of movement for better health is simple yet potent: consistent, tailored movement can forestall and alleviate several health issues commonly associated with office duties, spanning from musculoskeletal discomfort to mental health concerns like stress and anxiety.

Regular movement stimulates blood flow, alleviates muscle tension, and even bolsters mood and focus. Yet, it’s not just about increasing movement—it’s about optimizing it. This is where ergonomics steps in.

Ergonomics and Movement: Ergonomics and movement are intertwined. An ergonomic approach to workplace health involves sculpting work environments that seamlessly encourage healthy movement patterns. This could range from office layouts fostering walking to incorporating standing desks encouraging postural shifts throughout the day.

Research published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health showcased that workers taking regular movement breaks reported lower discomfort levels and heightened productivity. Similarly, a study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine unveiled that an ergonomic intervention, inclusive of movement breaks, curbed musculoskeletal disorders among office employees.

Wondering how to integrate more movement into your day and ensure its health benefits?

Here are some starting points:

  • Take regular breaks: Every 30 minutes, indulge in a short break—stand up, stretch, or stroll around.
  • Leverage ergonomic equipment: Utilize furniture and gear that stimulate healthy movement, like standing desks, ergonomic chairs, or accessories like footrests or keyboard trays.
  • Seek professional guidance: Consult an ergonomic expert, physiotherapist, or personal trainer for personalized advice on safe and effective movement practices.
  • Instill a habit of movement: Regularize movement throughout your day—set reminders for breaks, incorporate exercise into breaks, and opt for walking to communicate instead of emailing.
  • Real-life Cases: Movement and Ergonomics in Action Concrete examples demonstrate the impact of movement and ergonomics:
  • Google, renowned for its employee-centric approach, equips its workforce with adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and even treadmill desks. They foster regular breaks and offer fitness classes and wellness programs.
  • Steelcase, a furniture company, has engineered ergonomic office furniture to facilitate movement. Their range includes adjustable desks, dynamic-support chairs, and ‘workstations’ enabling work while walking on treadmills.

 

Ergonomic Checklists

Using movement in the workplace, businesses have reported substantial benefits—lower absenteeism, heightened productivity, and elevated employee contentment—due to their ergonomic strategies.

By comprehending the significance of movement and implementing ergonomic strategies, you can foster healthier, happier, and more productive workplaces.

How can you introduce more movement into my workday? There are various strategies to infuse more movement into your workday: take regular breaks to stand up or walk around, utilize ergonomic furniture promoting movement, seek professional guidance on safe movement practices, and consciously incorporate movement into your routine, such as opting to walk to communicate instead of using electronic means.

Reach out to us and let’s help you create a healthier, more productive, ergonomic work environment. occergo@auspicesafety.com