This post was written by Matthew Nasso, a rotational intern from RBC’s Career Launch Program working at ParticipACTION this past fall.
I have learned “There is no real ending. It’s just the place where you stop the story,” and my chapter with ParticipACTION has come to an end. I was pleased when our team wanted me to write one final blog to reflect on my experience with ParticipACTION and their culture as a physically active workplace. The answer was simple. My experience at ParticipACTION overcame some of my biggest fears regarding physical activity and working in an office environment.
I think it is important to share a synopsis of my story prior to beginning this chapter. Before joining ParticipACTION in August, I made numerous changes in my life that improved both my physical health and body image. I made these lifestyle changes by becoming more physically active, joining new sport leagues in Toronto, and working in an active environment. The idea of changing my routine was unsettling. I felt nervous entering an office setting for fear I might lose some of the progress I recently made. This paranoia came from three specific reasons: 1) A more sedentary lifestyle in an office meant being less active, 2) The longer commute to work would take a larger toll on my body, and 3) I would have less energy and be less motivated to stay physically active after work.
I am happy to announce that I overcame all my fears during my rotation with ParticipACTION. Their passion for physical activity and their initiatives to create a physically active workplace allowed me to continue my personal fitness goals. These workplace initiatives below contributed to success:
- Active transportation: Most employees at ParticipACTION find active methods to travel to work. As I live outside the city, I incorporated active transportation to work by occasionally walking the 4 KM from the bus terminal to our office.
- Standing desk: I am currently writing this blog while standing! Standing desks help you stretch and get the body moving during the work day. I felt more focused with a standing desk and less ‘sluggish’ near the end of the work day!
- Fit break: Once or twice a week, we incorporated a fit break into our daily work routine. This included planks, wall-sits, or even the dreaded “jogging sky roll” throughout the office. I really enjoyed the fit-breaks. It provided that jolt of adrenaline you needed to finish the work day.
All these physically active workplace activities overcame my fears of joining the ParticipACTION office. I had more energy throughout the work day and felt more motivated to be physically active when I came home. As I rotate back to RBC, my goal is to incorporate physical activity into the next chapter of my life.
Thank you! Keep fit and have fun!
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