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Writer's pictureRache Vaglio

Office Fitness: Exercises and Habits to Stay Active (Even at a Desk Job)

Updated: Sep 18


Staying active while working a desk job can be challenging, but integrating small exercises and healthy habits into your workday can make a significant difference.


Here are some practical tips and exercises to help you stay active and healthy, even when you are stuck at your desk.




1. Desk Exercises


1. Seated Leg Lifts

  • Sit up straight in your chair.

  • Lift one leg until it’s parallel to the floor, hold for a few seconds, and lower it back down.

  • Repeat with the other leg. Do 10-15 repetitions on each leg.


2. Chair Squats

Stand up from your chair and sit back down without using your hands.

Repeat 10-15 times to work your legs and glutes.


3. Seated Torso Twists

  • Sit up straight and place your hands on the back of your head.

  • Twist your torso to the right, hold for a few seconds, then twist to the left.

  • Repeat 10-15 times on each side.


 2. Standing Exercises


1. Calf Raises

  •  Stand behind your chair and hold onto it for balance.

  •  Lift your heels off the ground and stand on your toes, then lower back down.

  •  Repeat 15-20 times to strengthen your calves.


2. Wall PushUps

  • Stand a few feet away from a wall, place your hands on the wall at shoulder height.

  • Bend your elbows and lean towards the wall, then push back to the starting position.

  • Do 10-15 repetitions.


3. Standing Marches

  • Stand up and lift your knees towards your chest as if you are marching in place.

  • Do this for 1-2 minutes to get your heart rate up.


 3. Stretching


1. Neck Stretches

  •   Tilt your head towards your shoulder, hold for a few seconds, then switch sides.

  •   Repeat a few times on each side to release neck tension.


2. Shoulder Shrugs

  • Raise your shoulders towards your ears, hold for a few seconds, and then relax them.

  • Repeat 10-15 times to ease shoulder tension.


3. Seated Forward Bend

  • Sit on the edge of your chair, extend your legs, and reach towards your toes.

  • Hold for a few seconds to stretch your hamstrings and lower back.


 4. Healthy Habits


1. Take Regular Breaks

  • Stand up and move around every 3060 minutes.

  • Set a timer to remind yourself if necessary.


2. Stay Hydrated

Keep a water bottle at your desk and take regular sips throughout the dsy, Staying hydrated can help you feel more energetic and focused.


3. Use a Standing Desk

If possible, switch to a standing desk for part of the day. This can help reduce the time spent sitting and improve posture.


4. Walk During Breaks

Use your lunch break to take a walk outside or around your office. This can boost your mood and increase your daily step count.


5. Practice Good Posture

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor. Adjust your chair and computer screen to avoid hunching over.


6. Desk Yoga

Incorporate simple yoga poses that can be done at your desk, such as seated cat-cow stretches, seated twists, and wrist stretches.



Integrating these exercises and habits into your workday can help you stay active and reduce the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Remember, even small movements and breaks can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.


Start with a few of these tips and gradually incorporate more into your daily routine to create a healthier, more active work


For more tips and videos follow me over on my YouTube channel.


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