Incorporating Exercise into Your Workday: Under Desk Workouts
Maintaining a work-life balance can be quite challenging, especially for those with hectic schedules. Trying to juggle work, family life, and personal hobbies can often lead to neglecting the most important thing – our health. Fortunately, there are many ways to stay active while working, and under desk workouts are a great way to do so. In this article, we’ll explore how to incorporate exercise into your workday and some simple yet effective under desk workouts.
Benefits of Under Desk Workouts
Before we dive into the different under desk exercises you can do, let’s consider the benefits of incorporating them into your routine. Most importantly, under desk workouts can help improve your health and wellbeing. Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to back pain, neck stiffness, and posture issues. By adding some movement into your workday, you can reduce the risk of such issues and improve your posture.
Secondly, under desk exercises can help boost your energy levels, productivity, and creativity. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, leading to improved mental clarity and enhanced cognitive function.
Simple Under Desk Workouts
Now that we’ve established why under desk workouts are essential let’s explore some exercises you can do at your desk:
1. Leg Lifts
These are perfect for strengthening your core and lower body. Start by sitting upright in your chair, engaging your core muscles. Extend one leg out straight and hold it in the air for a few seconds before slowly lowering it back down. Repeat with the other leg. Aim to do three sets of 10 reps.
2. Desk Push-Ups
This exercise targets the chest, triceps, and shoulder muscles. Stand facing your desk and place your hands shoulder-width apart on the edge. Lower your chest towards the desk, bending your elbows, and then push back up. Aim to do three sets of 10 reps.
3. Under Desk Bike
This exercise is perfect for cardio and can be done using a mini bike that fits under your desk. Pedal with your feet while you work, aiming to do 30 minutes of cycling a day.
4. Chair Squats
This exercise targets the glutes, quads, and hamstrings. Start by standing in front of your chair with your feet shoulder-width apart. Slowly lower down into a squat position and then push back up. Aim to do three sets of 10 reps.
Conclusion
Incorporating under desk workouts into your workday is beneficial for both your physical and mental health. It’s important to remember that even small movements can make a big difference in your overall wellbeing. So, next time you’re stuck at your desk and feeling a little restless, try out one of these simple under desk exercises. Your body and mind will thank you!
