Deskercise: Simple Exercises You Can Do At Your Desk
In today's fast-paced world, many of us spend long hours sitting at our desks, which can take a toll on our physical health. However, with a little creativity and commitment, you can incorporate simple desk exercises into your daily routine to keep your body moving and your mind sharp. This article will share some simple exercises and other tips to keep you feeling your best during those hours of desk bound work.
Why are desk breaks important:
Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to a host of health issues, including muscle stiffness, poor posture, and decreased energy levels. That's where deskercise comes in! By taking quick breaks and engaging in desk exercises throughout the day, you can combat the negative effects of sitting, boost your energy, and improve your overall physical and mental well-being.
Simple Desk Exercises:
Neck Stretches: Begin by gently tilting your head to one side, holding for a few seconds, and then switching to the other side. Repeat several times to relieve tension in your neck muscles.
Shoulder Rolls: Roll your shoulders forward in a circular motion, then reverse the movement to roll them backward. This exercise helps alleviate stiffness and promotes relaxation in your shoulders.
Seated Spinal Twists: Sit up tall in your chair and gently twist your torso to one side, using your chair's armrest or the back of your chair for support. Hold the stretch for a few breaths, then repeat on the other side.
Chair Squats: Stand up from your chair and lower yourself back down as if you were going to sit, but stop just before your bottom touches the chair. Push through your heels to stand back up. This exercise engages your leg muscles and helps combat the effects of sitting all day.
Leg Raises: While sitting, straighten one leg out in front of you and hold for a few seconds before lowering it back down. Repeat with the other leg. This exercise strengthens your leg muscles and improves circulation.
Desk Push-Ups: Stand facing your desk and place your hands shoulder-width apart on the edge of the desk. Lower your chest towards the desk, then push back up to starting position. This exercise targets your chest, arms, and shoulders.
Incorporating “Deskercise” into Your Routine:
Set a reminder on your phone or computer to take regular breaks throughout the day. Aim to incorporate these exercises into your breaks or during meetings to keep your body moving and your mind fresh. Remember to listen to your body and modify exercises as needed to suit your individual fitness level and any physical limitations.
Additional Tips for Desk Health:
In addition to desk exercises, consider optimizing your workstation for better ergonomics. (Click here to read a previous article we published on ergonomics) Adjust your chair height, keyboard position, and monitor height to promote proper posture. And don't forget to take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around throughout the day.
With these simple desk exercises, you can turn your sedentary workday into an opportunity to stay active and prioritize your health. Start incorporating these into your daily routine today and feel the difference it makes in your physical and mental well-being. If you're ready to take your health to the next level, click here to schedule an appointment with us at one of our convenient Easewell Chiropractic locations in Atlanta. Let’s Cultivate True Health.
