How to Exercise at Your Desk
From: My SlimQuick.com
How to Exercise at your Desk
Submitted by Kathy on Fri, 04/24/2009 - 19:56
Many of us find ourselves tied to a desk all day, and sitting in the same spot for eight hours at a time is hardly good for us (or our butts). Although it’s best to get up and move around multiple times during the day, when it’s crunch time that isn’t always possible.
But don’t worry—we’ve got some simple exercises that you can do right at your desk without having to worry about coworkers giving you raised eyebrows or funny looks. These exercises are non-disruptive and discreet. If anything, they’ll admire your active efforts and want to join you!
Remember to take your time with each exercise and to stop immediately if you ever feel pain or strain. These can only benefit you if you ensure you have proper form, so be deliberate and don’t think about getting the exercise over with quickly. As with any exercise, always remember to breathe, being conscious of your breath on the way in and on the way out.
Neck Rolls: Sit up straight. Slowly roll your head so that your left ear points toward your left shoulder. This should take about a second or two. Slowly roll your head to the right side. Repeat five times and then make five full circles, taking approximately six seconds for each.
Side Stretches: Sit up straight. Turn your head to the left and your torso to the right and hold for five seconds. Do 15 reps, alternating sides.
Leg Lifts: Sit up straight and engage your abdominals. Slowly lift your left leg until it is level with your hips. Hold for five seconds. Slowly lower your leg back down. Do 15 reps, alternating legs and ensure your back is straight at all times.
Wrist Stretches: Sit up straight. Put your left arm straight in front of you with your palm facing upward. Use your right hand to grab your left fingers. Slowly and gently pull down on the fingers of the left hand, stretching the forearm, holding for five seconds. Do 10 repetitions, alternating arms.
Thigh Squeezes: Sit up straight and engage your abdominals. Place a full water bottle between your knees. Tightening your ab muscles, squeeze the water bottle gently, holding for three seconds. Release, and repeat 15 times.
These exercises aren’t going to get you in shape to run a marathon, but they’ll keep your blood flowing and help you burn a few calories throughout the day. Remember, it’s the little changes you make to your routine that make a difference. Add them all up, and you’ll reach your goals even faster.
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