Corporate Wellness: Exercise at your desk

We all spend too much time sitting and working.

In the idea world, we would get up and away from our desks and exercise. However, often there's just no time to "get up and away" from work, so "at the desk" exercise becomes a necessity.

Exercising at your desk can be great when it's a supplement to a more complete fitness plan, or if it's your way of getting started and easing into a plan that involves more activity.

Easy exercises you can do right at your desk:

Side Stretches These can help blood flow and keep your spine flexible and in good alignment. Stand up and reach with one arm down towards your feet, with the other arm going above and over your head.

Neck Stretches Gently stretch your neck, and then roll your head slowly around. Also try putting your arms out in front of you and bending your hands up and down at the wrist several times.

Arm Raises Doing arm raises several times throughout the day can not only get your blood pumping (depending on how energetically you do them) but can also help battle common work-related issues like carpal tunnel and weight gain. Raise them over your head, to the sides, and/or behind you.

Leg Lifts These are the kind you get to stay in your chair for: While sitting simply march in place, or lift your legs straight out in front of you. Work your calves by lifting your pointing your toes up and down several time.

By Rigel Gregg