According to the World Health Organization “Approximately 3.2 million deaths each year are attributable to insufficient physical activity”. While this might sound slightly dramatic when talking about office-based activity, it is difficult to ignore the direct impact office jobs and our modern lives have on our lack of movement and fitness levels. A lot of time is spent indoors, in a car and generally; sat down.
A BBC article also states that office workers are ‘too sedentary’ which is leading to a whole host of health implications such as weight gaIn, heart disease and joint problems – most of which can easily be improved and avoided by doing some simple stretches and office exercises at your desk.
Sharpens memory and focus
Reduces stress
Helps you learn faster
Prevents health risks
Improves concentration
Improves posture
A review in stretching programs in workplaces found that stretching improved a range of motion, posture and provided stress relief. As well as exercise in the office relieving mental and physical stress, it is also believed to reduce pain by up to 72 percent and of course will help you to burn a few extra calories. Many office workers can suffer from back pain due to not having the correct posture or just for simply sitting in your desk chair for too long.
Here are 6 office exercises and stretches for you and your co-workers to squeeze into your day in order to increase your daily physical activity. Grab your water bottle and give these a go!
If you find that you’re time-limited and constantly tied to your desk chair or are wondering what desk exercises you can do while sitting, here is a simple yet effective desk workout you can complete in the office.
An office workout doesn't necessarily have to involve you increasing your heart rate and getting all hot and bothered, some simple stretches and incorporating a little exercise into your daily routine can be just as beneficial to your health. Don't feel as though you have to invest in an exercise ball or start doing wall sits, push ups and chair squats in the middle of the office. (If however, you do have the time and energy for more intense office exercises then definitely go for it!)
These two straightforward stretches focus on the upper body and can be completed while sat at your desk to help improve posture and focus. They also don't involve too much effort.
Anyone who spends the majority of their work day repeatedly tapping away at the keyboard may find that their hands and wrists feel strained from time to time. A great way to release wrist pressure is to perform some simple wrist stretches.
Sitting at a desk all day long can cause your legs to cramp and restrict blood flow, which is why it’s important that you stretch your leg muscles and move your lower body whenever you can. Desk leg exercises and stretches are a great way to do this, as like many of the other exercises mentioned in the article; they can easily be done at your desk.
Go for a brisk walk on your lunch break with a co-worker.
Try switching to a standing desk.
Take part in any work exercise classes such as yoga.
Track your steps with a fitness app or watch and set yourself daily step goals.
Get up from your desk regularly and go for a quick walk around the office.
Take steps instead of lifts or escalators where possible.
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