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Finding time to be active in today’s increasingly desk-bound work culture might be difficult. The good news is that you don’t have to give up your fitness objectives just because you have a sitting job. Read on to learn how to incorporate fitness into your workplace without leaving your desk.

The Health Risks of Sitting Behind a Desk

Humans are built to stand upright, but that’s not always possible. While sitting for short periods is generally considered safe and is a natural part of daily life, sitting for extended periods can have severe health implications.

Prolonged sitting increases the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, and diabetes. It can weaken muscles, particularly in the legs and core, and often leads to back and neck pain. Poor posture is a common consequence, potentially causing long-term spinal issues and discomfort.

The inactive lifestyle associated with desk work can also lead to weight gain and obesity due to the reduced burning of calories , blood and oxygen circulation restriction and increased stress and anxiety levels.

How Desk Workouts Can Help

Desk exercises are basic workouts that may be done while seated. They can help you stay physically fit by relieving muscle stiffness and boosting circulation. Plus, they keep your mind sharp and stress levels in check, so you can focus better and stay calm under pressure.

Feeling a bit tired? Desk exercises give you a quick energy boost to keep you going. They also help you maintain good posture and keep back and neck pains at bay. And don’t forget about muscle tone and weight management – desk exercises can lend a hand there too.

Here are 10 easy ways to exercise while at your desk:

Leg Lifts

Sit up straight, extend one leg to the level of your hip, hold for a few seconds, and then lower it. Repeat 10-15 times, alternating legs.

Chest Lifts

Stand a few feet away from your desk, place your hands on the edge, and lower your chest towards the desk, then push back up. Aim for 10-15 repetitions.

Desk Chair Squats

Stand up without using your hands from your chair, then sit back down. Repeat this movement for a total of 10-15 repetitions.

Ankle Circles

Lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle in a circular motion while seated. Make 10-15 circles with one foot, then switch to the other.

Torso Twists

While seated, place your hands on your hips and your feet flat on the floor. Twist your torso to the left as much as you can comfortably, hold for a few seconds, and then twist to the right. Repeat 10-15 times on each side.

Glute Squeezes

Squeeze your glute muscles together for 5-10 seconds while sitting, then release. To strengthen your glutes, repeat this exercise a few times throughout the day.

Shoulder Squeezes

Maintain good posture and keep your arms at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together as though holding a pencil between them. To assist in relieving upper back stress, hold for 5-10 seconds, release, and repeat for numerous sets.

Stretching and Deep Breathing

Take short breaks during the day to practise deep breathing techniques. Deeply inhale through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and slowly exhale through your mouth. To enhance blood flow and relieve muscle tension, combine deep breathing with basic stretches.

Desk Yoga

Think about introducing a few yoga poses into your workday. Poses like the seated spinal twist, forward bend, and wrist stretches can help with flexibility and stress relief.

Marching in Place

Stand up and march in place for a few minutes if your workstation placement permits it. This can raise your heart rate and increase circulation. Marching can also assist in waking up your muscles after sitting for an extended period of time.

Conclusion

Exercise doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming to incorporate into your desk-bound schedule. These simple workplace stretches and exercises will help you keep active, lessen the harmful consequences of extended sitting, and increase your energy and productivity. So, why not begin today? Make a few workouts that work for you a part of your everyday desk routine. Your body will appreciate it!

Contact the Medical Society for helpful advice on which healthcare plan is best suited to you and your family, and more useful advise on easy ways to exercise while sitting at your desk.