Tips for Adding Steps to Your Work Day

Getting To and From Work

• Walk, run, cycle, rollerblade, or skateboard your way to work
• Park at the far end of the parking lot
• If you take the bus, get off a stop or two early and walk the rest of the way.

While at Your Desk

• Stand up while you are talking on the telephone. Cordless and cellular phones offer you the ability to move freely about your office while on the phone. The steps you take when you pace back and fourth during that important phone call will contribute to your daily total.
• Take a stretch break at your desk – See "Press Pause for a Stretch Break" for a sample stretching routine.
  http://www.winnipeginmotion.ca/winnipeg/common/uploads/files/pauseforastretch_wim_aspire_oct_06.pdf

Around the Office

• Take the stairs at work.
• Use a printer that is further from your office or even one floor up.
• Get up and walk messages over to people in your building rather than calling or sending an email.

Take Active Coffee Breaks

• Invite co-workers to walk around the block with you during your coffee break

Active Lunch Hour

• Organize group activities or classes (for example: weights, fitness classes, yoga, tai chi, etc.)
• Offer “Lunch & Learn” sessions. Invite people to present on different health related topics or to demonstrate different activity ideas.

Organize a Walking Club

• Have different routes and distances mapped out around your neighbourhood for employees to access – variety can help keep people motivated.
• Or, during winter months have routes inside your building or at a nearby shopping centre – walking up and down stairs and hallways.
• Check out the Winnipeg in motion web site for more great ideas on how to promote and incorporate physical activity during the workday (www.winnipeginmotion.ca)