It’s no secret that desk jobs lead to weight gain. Nip it in the bud and get in a quick workout routine to break up the grueling 9-5 work day. Studies show that frequent mid-day walks and standing resulted in workers losing an average of nine pounds as well as a decrease in triglyceride levels by 40 percent within six months! Join the movement and get started with these tips:
Encourage co-workers to start your fitness regimen with you. Start a friendly step-count competition with fellow department staff. Simply begin by wearing pedometers to see how many steps you take during a week. The winner gets a delicious fruit smoothie!
Ever heard of deskercise? We have and now you will too! This quick fitness tip is great for toning your chest and shoulders. Start in an incline plank. Place your hands on your desk and tilt your feet forwards. Lower your body onto your desk, touch your chest to your desk and push back up to the starting position. Repeat.
Grab your fitness fanatic friends, head to the conference room and get started on some seated bicycle twists. Begin in a seated position with your hands behind your head. Place your legs at about a 90 degree angle and while maintaining good core posture, lift your left knee and twist your right elbow to touch it. Slowly return to the starting position and alternate sides. This workout is great for your core and strengthening your obliques.
Say it with us: Squats, Squats, Squats! Work on toned thighs and glutes during a quick office squat session. Whether you choose Sumo Squats, Single Leg Squats or for the overachievers, squats with weights or a kettle bell, (if you have the space to store them under your desk, that is) these exercises will have you feeling the burn – in a good way! For a Single Leg Squat, begin by standing on one leg with your opposite leg extended straight in front. Lower yourself slowly, keeping your weight on the standing leg, to a seated position. Repeat for as many reps as you’d like. Switch sides.
The 40+ hour work week does not have to confine you to a desk. Get up and get moving! These small life changes will have a big impact on your lifestyle over time. Maybe you could even get your co-workers to go in on bringing a fitness instructor to your building, or better yet, see if your company would be willing to spring for a weekly class.
To continue these exercises at work or home, check out our website for other ways to get on the fast track for healthy living!
(Source: Refinery29)
