The office can be draining. Eight hours of typing, conference calls and watercooler conversation can make quite an impact on the mind. By the time five o'clock rolls around, exercise is the last thing on your mind, but sitting, typing and coffee drinking all day take a toll on the body as well. Remaining stationary at work can cause back pain, joint stiffness and weight gain.
Only 20 percent of American adults reach their daily requirement for exercise according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. But if you're looking for a way to kill two birds with one stone, try some simple and easy desk exercises. Here are five tips to help you exercise out while working:
The morning commute
Changing your route to the office may be all you need to cut a few calories and get a good cardiovascular workout before you clock in. If your office is relatively close, try walking or riding your bike to work. If you are taking a train or bus, get your blood pumping by getting off a stop or two early and walking the rest of the way. Standing for the entire commute can also help stretch out muscles. Even simple adjustments like taking the stairs over the elevator can increase your aerobic activity.
Magic carpet ride
Sitting down legs crossed while your feet are on your chair, grip the armrests with your hands and elevate your body, hovering a few inches above your seat cushion. Hold that position for at least ten seconds, and work in about five repetitions. This is a great way to strengthen your abdominal core as well as your biceps and forearms.
Under desk leg raises
Sit down straight at your desk and put your feet flat out on the floor. Squeeze your abs in, extend one leg out forward and in line with your hip. Hold your leg there for ten seconds, then alternate legs. Repeat between 10 and 15 times for a nice and simple workout on your calves and your abs.
Pack a healthy lunch
Statistics show that one in four Americans consume some type of fast food every day. Skip the fast food and provide yourself with a balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables rich with antioxidants. Avoiding the burger and fries is also an easy way to lower cholesterol.
Palm stretches
This exercise won't give you that six pack or pulsating biceps, but it might be the best for you in the long run. Those who type frequently at work are more than ten percent likely to develop severe wrist pain in their lifetimes. Stand at your desk, lay your palms down with your fingers facing your body and hold the stretch for a good 15 seconds. Do this multiple times per day to relieve potential carpal tunnel symptoms.
