Lack of Physical Activity During the Pandemic

Constant lockdowns and working from home (WFH) during the pandemic can make it difficult to include physical activity and mobility in your daily routine.

A recent study from Tokyo has shown that individuals working from home spent less physical activity time and longer uninterrupted sitting time compared to individuals in the no WFH group. Individuals working from home also had shorter light physical activity time and moderate to vigorous physical activity time compared to the no WFH group. Overall, the WFH group was generally less physically active compared to the no WFH group. According to the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, adults should be getting 150 minutes/week of moderate to vigorous aerobic physical activity such as walking or running, at least 2 days/week of strengthening exercises using major muscle groups, and several hours of light activity such as standing.

Are you looking for ways to start exercising as a part of your daily routine? Physiotherapists can help you in achieving this goal!

A physiotherapist will create a safe exercise program for you and provide you with supervision. Training with a physiotherapist allows you to ensure you are exercising using proper form, proper breathing technique, and help prevent injuries or re- injuries, and strengthen key areas to improve pain, discomfort, and overall function and mobility. The physiotherapist will also prescribe a home exercise program with mobility exercises and stretches so you can include movement in your daily routine. Education by the physiotherapist will be provided on how these exercises can be added to your busy schedule. The exercise program will be condition-specific and tailored to reach your goals. The program will be progressed gradually and modified as needed to help you become more active in the safest and most realistic way possible.

If aches and pains from lack of movement, poor posture, or sitting too much are getting in the way… you might want to think about Chiropractic or Physiotherapy.

References: Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines; Associations of working from home with occupational physical activity and sedentary behavior under the COVID-19 pandemic