By Donna V. Scaglione
With more than one-third of Americans fighting obesity, health researchers looked to how we work as a possible contributing factor to our weight problem. What they found was not surprising: Only 20 percent of the jobs we do today require moderate physical activity, down from 50 percent in 1960. While researchers say our lack of physical activity at work is only part of the obesity problem — what we eat, our lifestyles, and genes also play a role — it’s important to consider how we can fit in more exercise during our mainly sedentary workday. Here are some ways.
1. Rethink your commute
Can you walk or ride your bike to work? If you can, take advantage of the daily dose of exercise that would offer — and save money on gas while you’re at it. Even if you take public transportation or drive to work, you can squeeze in some physical activity by getting off a bus or subway stop farther away from the office and walking several blocks. If you park in a lot, park in the far end to add distance between you and the office.
