Fitting in fitness at work can be a challenge for all of us at times, especially if you have a desk job. Here are a few amazing things you can do for yourself and your waistline, all while increasing your personal productivity at work. Don’t think of your cubicle as a confined space, but rather as a platform for balance for a few of these quick exercises.
A healthy body and cardiovascular exercise bring more blood to the heart, and in turn more oxygen to your critically-thinking brain cells.
You may even find yourself serving as the office motivator or coach for your boss and co-workers! (Read: Why Prior Military Members Make Good Youth Athletic Coaches)
- Push-ups: Every military member’s favorite! There’s no reason to hit the floor of the gym with these. Using the desk edge as your platform, repeat three to five sets of 10 push-ups for a fat-burning, blood-pumping workout!
- Squats: Using your desk chair as a “checkpoint,” squat to a 90-degree position, fully sinking into your heels with your toes visible in front of your knees. Repeat five sets of 10 or 20 for a quick quad-burn and a better “seat” for you to sit on at your desk chair.
- Chair or Desk Dips: Using your desk or chair as your base, face away from your surface of support while supporting your weight on the heels of your hands upon your chosen surface. “Dip” to a deep bend at the elbow for five sets of 10 or 20 for a triumphant tricep builder! If these are too challenging, bend your knees and assist your body weight by distributing your weight to your larger limbs.
- Run in Place: Life is a marathon, not a sprint, but you don’t need a treadmill or a track to get your heart rate racing! Run in place for three minutes, rest for two. Repeat as needed to get the blood and inspiration flowing!
- Standing Crunches: Stand at your desk with a slight bend in your knees and a 30-degree turnout from your hips. Engage your abdominal muscles, keeping a strong core and natural curve in your spine. Raise your bent knee up to your ribs for an oblique bend and improved core. Repeat five sets of 10 on each side.
Every employer knows that critically-thinking and content employees need moments of inspiration and a “healthy” work environment for optimal performance. Be your best with these five quick and brilliant blood-moving, fat-burning tips.
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