How to Stay Active with Diabetes During a Busy Workday

Living with diabetes can be a real challenge, especially when your busy work schedule leaves little time for physical activity. But here's the good news: incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is essential to managing your blood sugar levels and overall health.

In this blog post, we'll explore some simple yet effective ways to stay active with diabetes during a busy workday. Whether you're working in an office or from home, we've got some great tips and tricks to help you sneak in some exercise and keep your diabetes under control.

So, let's dive in and discover how you can stay active and healthy, even with a jam-packed work schedule!

15 Simple But Effective Ways to Stay Active With Diabetes During a Busy Workday

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires careful management to stay healthy. One of the most critical aspects of managing diabetes is staying active.

However, with a busy workday, finding the time and energy to stay active can be challenging. Here are 15 simple but effective ways to stay active with diabetes during a busy workday:

1. Take the stairs instead of the elevator

Taking the stairs is a great way to increase your heart rate and burn extra calories. If you work on a higher floor, you can start by taking the elevator part of the way and then switching to the stairs.

2. Take a walk during your lunch break

Walking during your lunch break is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. If you don't have time for a full walk, even a 10-minute walk can help.

3. Do some simple stretches at your desk

Sitting for long can cause tension and stiffness in your muscles. Simple stretches like neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and ankle circles can help relieve that tension and improve your posture.

4. Stand up and move around every hour

Sitting for long can lead to health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Set a reminder to stand up and move around for a few minutes every hour to keep your blood flowing and reduce your risk of these health problems.

5. Use a standing desk or an exercise ball chair 

Standing desks and exercise ball chairs can help you engage your muscles and burn more calories while working. Using an exercise ball chair ensures good posture and core stability.

6. Join a walking group with your coworkers

Walking with coworkers can make exercise more fun and social. You can set goals together and motivate each other to stay active.

7. Take a fitness class before or after work

A fitness class can help you stay motivated and add variety to your exercise routine. You can try a variety of classes, such as yoga, Pilates, or strength training.

8. Do some yoga poses to reduce stress and increase flexibility

Yoga can help reduce stress and improve flexibility, which is especially important for people with diabetes. You can do simple poses like the mountain pose, forward fold, and downward dog.

9. Elevate your walking by hiking

If you find yourself bored with the same scenery, hiking can offer a refreshing change of pace.

Explore a variety of trails, then go on foot to discover new sights and spot some wildlife. Hiking is an ideal family activity that allows everyone to bond and enjoy the outdoors together.

10. Make time for a quick workout before you start your day or during a break 

Even a 10-15 minute workout can help you increase your heart rate and burn extra calories. You can try exercises like jumping jacks, squats, lunges, and push-ups.

11. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker to track your steps 

A pedometer or fitness tracker can help you set goals and track your progress. Aim for at least 10,000 steps per day or more.

12. Park further away from the entrance to your workplace

Parking far can help you take some extra steps and burn more calories. If you use public transportation to get to work, consider getting off a stop or two early and walking the rest of the way.

13. Take stretch breaks 

Sitting for extended periods can cause muscle tension and fatigue. Take regular stretch breaks throughout your workday. This can include stretching your arms, legs, and back.

14. Take the long route sometimes

Instead of taking the shortest route to your destination, take the longer route to get some extra steps in. For example, take a longer route to the restroom, the printer, or the break room. This can add to a significant amount of extra activity throughout the day.

15. Take the opportunity to stand

If you're on call, in a meeting, or waiting in line, take the opportunity to stand instead of sitting. Standing burns more calories than sitting and can help you stay alert and focused during these tasks.

Incorporating these simple activities into your workday allows you to stay active and manage your diabetes effectively. Remember, every little bit counts; even small changes can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.

Why is Physical Activity Essential for a Diabetic Patient?

Physical activity has been proven to be an effective way to manage diabetes. Regular exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to control blood sugar levels better. It can also improve cardiovascular health and aid in weight loss.

However, it's not just about exercise - maintaining an active lifestyle can also make a significant difference in managing diabetes.

In addition to staying active, it's also essential to get regular diabetes screening tests to monitor your progress and catch any potential issues early. Diabetes screening tests can detect high blood sugar levels before symptoms occur, allowing for early intervention and better disease management. 

At Redcliffe Labs, you can book a diabetes test to get an accurate and timely report to take control of your health and make informed decisions about your diabetes management. Don't let diabetes control your life - stay active and get screened regularly to be on top of your health.