Over the past few months many of us have found ourselves working from home full time due to the coronavirus pandemic. Working from home is great in many ways as it allows for more time to spend with your family and there's no daily commute or traffic jams to get stuck in. However, in reality our inactivity has probably increased and this can have a detrimental effect on both our overall health and our leg health.
Staying active while working from home can be difficult, you can often be focused on a specific task and before you know it you haven't moved for hours. Here are some of our top tips for keeping your legs healthy and staying active while at home:
Wear compression therapy
Wear compression socks, stockings or tights when working from home. Whether you are seated for long periods or walking around, compression garments work to support your veins by helping improve venous return to the heart, preventing the backflow of blood. Read more about the benefits of wearing compression here.
Make time for exercise
Whether this is committing to getting up a little earlier and going for a 30 minute walk or getting workout in before work, or opting for a lunch time work out instead. Scheduling in some time in away from your desk means that you are more likely to do it. Wearing compression while exercising can help muscle repair and prevent tired and achy legs the next day.
Stay hydrated
It's important to stay well hydrated throughout the day, aiming to drink at least 6-8 cups or glasses of fluid a day (this can be water or sugar free squash). Committing to this will get you up and away from your desk, ensuring that you are moving regularly and stretching your legs.
Using a fitness device
Wearing a FitBit, Apple Watch or other fitness device is great for tracking your daily steps and movement. These devices often send you reminders when you have been inactive for a long period of time.
Do leg exercises at your desk
Simple exercises such as moving your feet around in circles, then up and down can improve circulation, reduce swelling and help to strengthen muscles. For further support and to watch our leg exercise videos click here.
For more information on how to squeeze movement in visit Club Squeeze In.
*If you’re new to compression or have concerns about your legs or feet, please talk to your GP, nurse or pharmacist for further advice on whether compression might be suitable for you.
