All of us are concerned about our health almost as much as we are about our careers. New studies suggest sitting in our cubicles for long stretches of time is more hazardous to our health than smoking. Since we care about our financial health just as much, we find ourselves sitting at our desks, furiously typing away at our computers trying to close the next big deal! Whether you are a developer, engineer or graphic designer, the sedentary culture in the typical office is spreading heart disease and diabetes like wildfire due to lack of exercise and physical activity.
Did I get your attention?
It’s not too late to do something about it. There are simple changes you can make at the office throughout the day that can dramatically improve your health.
Quick bouts of aerobics, stretching, walking, and strength exercises can make a world of difference. Start making these changes sooner rather than later as these small changes can make a world of difference over time. Below are a few suggestions that you can implement into your daily routine while sitting at your desk.
- Take breaks and walk around your office building for a few minutes every couple of hours
- My personal favorite: Wall, desktop or window sill push-ups
- Stand up at your desk and do squats
- Seated tricep dips to work your arms
- Take a 5 minute break and walk the stairways in your office building
- Sit in your chair and do leg raises
- Keep a small set of hand weights in your desk drawer for bicep curls, shoulder presses or shadow boxing. Another favorite is shadow boxing with or without hand weights
Below are a few stretches you can start doing at your desk to keep that blood flowing and prevent muscles from tensing up. Add these into your daily routine before lunch, after meetings, or after you’ve been sitting for an extended amount of time and you will notice a world of difference!
By: Kevin B.