The following three office exercises are fundamental, and a must for anyone who works at a desk. Whether you are standing or sitting at your desk, try taking the time to do one of these exercises at least once per hour.
By getting up and doing one of these office exercises every hour, your ability to focus and to work efficiently will improve. You will also feel better and more energized during the times of your work day when your energy may not always be optimal.
Note: You can do any of these exercises at your desk or cubicle, but if you’re feeling shy, just grab an open conference room and shut the door.
1. Static Back
Do for 5-10 minutes
This exercise will re-set the hips and spine, and provide instant relief from tension or pain in the low back. You may find you want to fall asleep in this position, and that’s fine. (Just make sure you set your alarm so you don’t miss that important meeting with your boss.)
2. Airbench
Do for 2 minutes
Although not as soothing as static back, airbench will have a similar effect on neutralizing the hips and spine, but in a much more invigorating way. You may want to skip the afternoon energy drink, and opt for a two-minute airbench instead.
3. Sitting Floor
Do for 3-5 minutes
This is a great way to counteract the effects of sitting. If you don’t have a wall, you can still get the same benefit by doing the exercise without the wall. To make this one fun, explain why you are doing this to the person in the cubicle next to you, and invite them to do it with you. You might even inspire your coworkers into healthier habits.
Which Office Exercises Will You Try?
This week at work, set an alarm to go off each hour as a reminder to do one of these exercises. If you make a regular practice of these office exercises, both your body and your mind will thank you for it. Pick one to do and try it right now.
Maryann, who is currently certified as a Posture Alignment Specialist and a Personal Trainer, created Realign as a way to empower others to take responsibility for their own health the same way she did. Maryann works with people online via Skype, as well as in-person at her studio in San Diego, California.
To learn more about Maryann's programs, visit Realign Therapy. Maryann is also the founder of The Posture Workout a revolutionary online form of Posture Alignment Therapy that makes this method easily accessible for everyone.
