You've probably heard all about the benefits of developing a corporate fitness program for employee health, but what do these initiatives really look like? In addition to the idea of creating company gyms or discounted gym memberships, there are also some creative ways that office workers can bring fitness activities into their normal day.

Exercising while seated -the balance cushion
A balance cushion is a fitness tool that can be used at a desk or in a seat. The user sits on the cushion, which continually adjusts, forcing the body to compensate and work a variety of core muscles. The balance cushion is one option for “multi-tasking”, or working the body while getting desk work done.

Exercising while seated - the roller board
Another interesting tool is often called a roller board. Some specific brand names apply such as the “CoreGlide”. Quite desk workers can do with these items is to place body weight on them and do some leg or lower body exercises while seated. The roller board helps the legs move back and forth with the body in a seated position. When a user has time to move the roller board away from the desk, some variations can provide a full body workout.

The standing desk
Many who are realizing the strain that continual sitting puts on the back and spine are experimenting with a standing desk situation. This allows office workers to flex muscles, move limbs, and possibly work the core while operating a computer or otherwise doing desk work. The standing position does not alleviate all of the stress on the back, but it at least provides an alternative, and to varying postures may be the key to spinal longevity.

Isometrics
The term “isometrics” refers to range of body activities where the resistance comes not from an outside tool, but from the body itself. Isometric activities include limit against limb, as well as push-ups, situps, and other exercises using isometrics along with gravity.

Hit the bricks
Another option is the long-standing, traditional tool that office workers can almost always utilize: the mandated 10 and 15 minute breaks provided to workers by government regulation provide an opportunity to stretch, walk or run. This can be done in the parking lot, across several city blocks, or in any space adjacent to your workplace. Using breaks for cardio activity is critical in promoting a healthy work/life balance.

Group classes
When a sufficient number of employees have come on board for fitness initiatives, managers or others can experiment with adding group activities to the roster. Trained specialists can provide a greater range of activity, and offer tips on how to maximize muscle strength and how to keep motivation for daily fitness training.

All of these activities can help the more sedentary in the workforce to promote better bodily health, but only if top managers and other key staffers are on board. Use presentations including statistics on employee health to promote awareness of how these types of programs can benefit a company or business.