I’m not going to pretend that this is the best route to go when you’re looking for a way to lose pounds or inches, but there definitely seems to be a need to find out how to get in as much exercise as possible in today’s busy lifestyle.
Let’s face it; our bodies were just not made to sit around at a desk for most of the day. We were built to move! It doesn’t matter how much attention you pay to the ergonomics of your office space – without movement you are bound to suffer from back pain, stiffness, and headaches.
It is generally recommended that you try to get in at least 30 minutes of activity 5 days per week. It will help you to feel better, look better, be more productive and help to melt away those winter pounds. If you do nothing else, be sure to get up from your desk every ½ hour and take a short walk or stretch your body.
Try these exercises the next time you’re sitting at your desk:
1. While sitting in your chair, lift your leg off the seat and hold it out in front of you for 5 seconds. Lower your foot to the floor (but don’t rest it) and hold it for five seconds. Switch to the other leg. Do 5-15 repetitions on each leg.
2. Try a mini burst of cardio by pumping your arms over your head for 30 seconds, then switch to tapping your feet on the floor for 30 seconds.
3. Place your hands on the armrest of your chair and lift yourself out of the chair. Hold for 10 seconds. Repeat 5-10 times.
4. Hold on to the edge of your desk and roll your chair back until you are looking at the floor. Use your arms to pull yourself back. Repeat 15 times.
5. While sitting straight in your chair raise your arms high above your head and hold for 5 seconds. Stretch your left hand high, then your right. Repeat.
6. Add a bit of Yoga to your day by turning your head to the right and your torso to the left. Hold for 5 seconds then change directions.
7. Work your abs and buttocks by clenching the muscles as tight as you can, hold for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat each exercise 15 times for an invisible workout.
8. If your wrists have you in knots try this stretch exercise. Make a fist with your thumbs on top. Place your hand and forearm on your desk. Stretch your wrist to the left, then the right. Then lift your arm from the desk and rotate your wrists in circles (both directions). Finish by placing your fingers on the edge of your desk and pressing gently to stretch the fingers.
