5 Desk Exercises That Will Keep You In Shape
by Yellow
Research has told us time and time again that at least 30 minutes of exercise a day is essential in order to lead a healthy lifestyle. Of course what researchers don't take into account is how busy the lot of us are... Leading our sedentary full-time jobs.
When you search for ‘Desk Exercises' all that comes up are activities that require you to make a fool out of yourself in the office or ones that will get you sweating in that brand new suit you just purchased. That's exactly why we've illustrated these 5 easy desk exercises that will get you moving in your own seat! Sounds like a dream, doesn't it?
Glute squeeze
Start out by extending your feet in front of you, to form a 90-degree angle, while sitting down on your chair. Squeeze your glutes as hard as possible for 5 to 10 seconds. Alternate side after every interval. Once you are comfortable with this movement, lower your legs slightly and continue to perform the glute squeezes, working your core as you go along. This move might sound low impact but it is still effective.
Leg raise
For this move, you'll have to slide to the edge of your chair, place your foot firmly on the floor, extend your opposite leg out straight in front of you. With your quadriceps contracted, raise your leg about six inches off of the floor. Pause for a few seconds and slowly lower your leg back to the floor. Without releasing the tension in your quadriceps muscle, raise your leg again. Repeat 8 to 12 times on one side before switching to the other side.
Single chest press pulse
We have Cassey Ho to thank for this iconic move! Place your forearms together and then clasp your hands, lift your arms up so that your elbows are at shoulder height. Raise your arms up 3-4 inches and then back down repeatedly until you've achieved your desired amount of reps. This move will surely get your shoulders burning, whatever you do, stay in control!
Hip flexions
Get ready to loosen your hips. Sit in your chair with your legs bent. Lift your thighs up alternatively as if you were marching on the spot. Keep your thigh lifted for as long as your endurance will allow it before switching sides. This move will get your muscles aching by the end of it.
Hop on a stability ball
Stability balls are known to improve flexibility and strengthen the core. Opt to sit on an exercise ball over sitting in your usual desk chair in order to burn some extra calories. Apart from being comfortable, these little buggers sure are fun to ride. Don't have one yet? Here's the list of Sports Equipment and Accessories listed on Yellow.
Dedicating at least 6 minutes to each of the above moves will get you in shape in no time! We're excited to see how much of a difference these moves will make to your overall health. Let us know which one is your favourite in the comment section below!
