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Did you know that the average employed South African works 2200 hours a year – the most of all countries surveyed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. That’s a lot of time on the job – which is why we think it’s important to step away from the desk sometimes. To help us get some healthy RnR, we’ve decided to get active in 2020. Here’s how…
Sitting for long periods of time has been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer and even dementia! In addition, sitting uses less energy than moving around which leads to unhealthy weight gain. But that’s not all – sitting actually compresses the spine and puts undue stress on the back and neck muscles. Lastly, but by no means least, a sedentary lifestyle can lead to anxiety and depression.
The remedy for a multitude of ills – get moving! Just a brisk twenty-minute walk three times a week can improve our mood, help us maintain a healthier weight, help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and manage lifestyle diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Walking outside also helps boost our Vitamin D levels, helps promote mental clarity and strengthens our muscles (including our heart muscles). Taking it up a notch – running helps promote overall fitness and strength, increases lung function and promotes a rush of endorphins (that ‘runners high’).
To promote an active lifestyle for our team members, this year we’re getting on board the Parkrun phenomenon. Parkrun is a collection of five-kilometre ‘fun runs’ which take place on Saturday mornings at venues throughout the world – founded by Zimbabwean-born, South African-raised, UK-living Paul Sinton-Hewitt, with the first event taking place in London, England, the events now happen in 22 countries throughout the world, including South Africa, the USA and Australia.
South Africa has numerous Parkrun venues – from seaside to suburban, berg to bushveld and everything in between! With our great weather, there’s really no reason not to give Parkrun a go – other than the obvious health benefits, completing a Parkrun also contributes to Discovery Vitality points, for those members of the medical aid scheme.
There’s nothing to it – simply head on over to the Parkrun website, find an event in your area, and sign up!
The SA Oil Blues crew is kitted out, barcoded up and ready to hit it out the park during our breakfast runs! How about you?