By Jody Long
No matter how comfortable the conference room chair is, sitting in an all-day meeting is usually not ideal. Unfortunately, in our line of work, these meetings have to take place. Here's an idea for your next meeting, so your guests can be more productive in their breakout sessions, and less fatigued by the end of the day.
Start by giving your guests a comfortable space. Make sure the meeting room chairs are adjustable, and comfortable.
Another way to increase your guest’s productivity at the meeting is to give them a chance to get up and walk during the day. One way you can accomplish this, is to have the lunch set in a different area of the event site, rather than brought into the meeting room. A change of scenery is also a good thing for those stuck inside all day.
Last but not least, give your guests an “ergonomic break” every few hours. Don’t expect them to do something on their own when you give them a bathroom break, but rather guide them through some stretches and exercises like the ones below.
“Ergo Break” Exercises(courtesy of TheBackSchool.net):
(If you or your guests have had any recent injuries, surgeries, or health problems, or if these cause you any pain, consult your doctor.)
1. Finger and wrist flexor stretch. This is a great stretch for those who are constantly working at a computer.
a. Straighten your elbow with palm up.
b. Point your fingers toward the floor.
c. Use your other hand to gently pull down on your palm and fingers.
d. Hold for 10 – 15 seconds, you should feel a mild pulling sensation. If you experience discomfort, perform the stretch more gently.
2. Hamstring stretch. Have your guests perform this stretch if they have been either sitting or standing or extended periods of time.
a. While standing, place your heel on the ground in front of you, with knee straight. Stand next to something for balance if you need it.
b. Keep your back straight, look up at the ceiling, and bend forward at your hips.
c. Hold for 10 – 15 seconds, you should feel a mild pulling sensation. If you experience discomfort, perform the stretch more gently or keep your foot on the floor.
3. Neck and shoulder stretch. This will help relieve tension for your guests that are starring at a computer screen all day.
a. Place your hands on the front of your forehead, with palms facing out. Take a deep breath in.
b. Pull elbows toward back pockets while rotating palms out.
c. Slowly exhale while squeezing shoulder blades together and drawing head back.
d. Once you have fully exhaled, hold for 10 – 15 seconds. Repeat twice. If you experience discomfort, perform the stretch more gently.