Working from home may save employees hours spent in traffic, but the convenience of a commute-free routine can come with an unexpected health cost.
With no walk to the bus stop, office or lunch spot, remote workers can easily spend most of the day sitting in front of a computer.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged sedentary behaviour and insufficient physical activity can increase the risk of serious conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that adults complete at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week, while also limiting the amount of time spent sitting.
For people working remotely, regular movement can be as simple as taking short walking breaks between tasks, stretching during long periods of screen time, using the stairs, or taking a brisk walk before or after work.
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More structured activities such as jogging, cycling, dancing or strength training can also help build a healthier routine.
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Beyond physical health, exercise can support mental wellbeing and help workers manage the pressures of demanding jobs.
Regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of depression and can contribute to better overall quality of life.
The message for remote workers is straightforward removing the daily commute should not mean removing movement from the day.
Building regular activity into a home-working routine can help protect the body, support mental wellbeing and reduce the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle.