Thinking Out Loud

We’ve discussed workplace fitness before but it’s been a while, so let’s revisit shall we? Yes, most of us sit for at least eight hours a day. Not to mention the time of our commute partnered with whatever we choose to do after work (sit on the coach watching a show)? Let’s face it, sitting that much is just no Bueno. It increases our risk of metabolic syndrome and other nasty things. Did you know it can even increase muscle soreness and tightness making us even more tired.

Here are a few easy desk exercises you can do at least once an hour. Try for every 3o mins.

Wall Sits: Yep, as easy as it sounds. Well, maybe not easy…you’ll feel the burn! Stand with your back against the wall, bend your knees and slowly slide your back down the wall until your quads are parallel to the floor. See if you can start with 5 X 30 second intervals with the goal of increasing to 5 X 1 minute!

Seated Leg Raises: This one is great because no one can really see you doing it. While in your seat, straighten out one leg (or both if you’re feeling saucy) and lift and hold in place for about 10 seconds each. Repeat 15-20 times per leg (or both at the same time) with the goal of increasing the time you keep them raised.

Trusty Tricep Dip: I mean, these can be done anywhere. Use the back side of your desk or a table. Make sure you have a sturdy chair before you try that. I did that once and the chair fell behind me and needless to say, that didn’t turn out great for me.

Add some calf raises into the mix, always take the stairs (if able of course) and try walking to a cubicle to ask a question vs. an interoffice memo or messenger!