Sitting all day can lead to health risks and discomfort. Incorporate these desk-friendly exercises and equipment into your workday to stay active and improve your overall well-being.
When you need a quick break from your desk, a balance board offers a simple and effective way to work out. Standing on either end of the board and trying to balance engages your legs and core, helping to strengthen these muscle groups. Amazon has affordable balance board options, while FluidStance offers the original Plane Cloud balance board for a premium experience.
Stay active during calls and emails with an elliptical that fits snugly under your desk. These devices mimic the motion of gym ellipticals or bike pedals, allowing you to move your legs while seated. Dick's Sporting Goods and Amazon offer a range of under-the-desk elliptical options to suit your needs.
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
If you're looking to simulate climbing stairs without leaving your desk, a stair stepper machine is an excellent choice. Amazon offers a budget-friendly stair stepper for under $50, while Walmart provides a more comprehensive option that includes resistance bands for additional exercise.
Walking pads are compact treadmills designed to fit under standing desks. They're a convenient way to burn calories and stay healthy even when pressed for time. Amazon carries a basic walking pad, while the Walking Pad company offers advanced foldable models with various features.
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
A foot swing not only provides comfort by elevating your feet at work, but it also allows you to stretch your calves and other leg muscles. Walmart and Uplift Desk offer foot swings at affordable prices, making it an easy way to add some movement to your day.
Foot rockers engage your ankles and calves, helping to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Balancing your feet on the foot pads and rocking your ankles back and forth activates your hamstrings, heels, and ankles. Amazon and Powerstep carry footrocker options to suit your desk space and fitness goals.
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
Replace your office chair with an exercise ball for a more dynamic and engaging seating experience. Bouncing and balancing on the ball encourages movement throughout the workday, strengthening your core and improving posture. Walmart and Amazon have exercise balls available for under $30, making them an accessible option for desk workers.
In addition to these specific equipment choices, consider incorporating simple movements into your workday:
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
* Stand up and walk around every hour or so.
* Stretch your arms, legs, and back at regular intervals.
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
* Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
* Park farther away from work to increase your steps.
Stay Active at Work: Desk Exercises and Equipment for a Healthier Workday
Making these small changes can significantly improve your physical well-being and reduce the risks associated with sedentary behavior. By staying active at work, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing productivity.
