On the contrary, if executed incorrectly, these routines can become resented by staff members, ineffective and result in a loss of profits due to unproductivity. In the scenario above, there is no change in the course of stretching exercises to specifically address the discomfort in the employee's shoulder. Stretching exercises designed for employees to tone specific muscle groups prone to fatigue could increase employees' flexibility and help build endurance to prevent muscle strains (Saunders, 1992). So, in the example I just described, the company has a “routine” in place, but does anyone really benefit from it? Twist your upper body in the direction of the arm that’s resting on the back of your chair. Partaking in your workplace’s special benefits and events can help you de-stress from work and provide an opportunity to get to know co-workers outside of a work setting. Your email address will not be published. Utilize a professional that understands the physical requirements of the job and can design a routine that targets specific movement patterns. Stretching, by definition, involves the aim of elongating a muscle; whereas “warming up” is exactly what it says. Here are 30 healthy snacks that are easy to grab and guaranteed to satisfy your hunger. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Start by stretching your arm and hand out and slowly rotate the wrist down until you feel a stretch. Remaining seated, extend one leg outward. Use your other hand and pull the elbow toward your head. Back injury is one of the most common injuries that can plague city workers. I am just attempting to point out that if it is not purpose driven, engaging and dynamic, your program will have limited success. Research shows that repetitive motion, poor posture, and staying in the same position can cause or worsen musculoskeletal disorders. Workplace stretching routines can be valuable tools in a broader wellness initiative designed to prevent work related injuries and improve performance. The routine below is a basic static stretching routine designed to complete on an exercise mat at the end of your workout. You'll feel tension in the back of your shoulder. Just like everything else, there are right and wrong ways to proceed when initiating a new program. For starters, you can set a timer to remind you to take a quick walk or stretch. What’s the Best Sitting Position for Good Posture? How to Create a Workplace Stretching Program. Additionally, the employees are keenly aware that these exercises do not focus on specific physical demands of their position and do little to nothing to make them feel better at the end of the day. Hold for 3 to 5 seconds. Required fields are marked *. A review of stretching programs in workplaces found that stretching improved range of motion, posture, and provided stress relief. Ergonomically sound tools and habits are key to an efficient working environment. Good www.healthline.com. Watch Queue Queue. Work-related disorders aren’t just limited to heavy manufacturing or construction. Don’t go further than is comfortable. Relax again and lift your chin back to starting position. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. With hand open and facing down, gently bend wrist from side to side, as far as possible. Additionally, ensure that the managers implementing the program with team members are educated on the importance of the program and believe in the importance of it. All rights reserved. Clasp hands together above the head with palms facing outward. lu. There’s also a 125 percent risk for cardiovascular disease. Make sure to partner with someone who has experience implementing workplace stretching routines. Workplace on-the-job stretching programs are controversial, some safety professionals believe in them while others think they are a waste of time. Push the chest outward, and raise the chin. Through the stretching program, employees stretch for two minutes as a group. You may experience benefits from: Ask your manager or human resources department about ergonomic furniture. Additionally, a stretching program can affect standing up while on the phone or eating lunch, getting a flexible standing desk so you can change your position, getting up from your seat every hour and walking around the office. Nothing will be successful unless it is supported by upper-level management. Staying in one position while doing repetitive motions is typical of a desk job. Hold for 3 to 5 seconds. Stretching the Neck and Shoulders. 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