Workplace exercises to burn extra calories

12 March, 2013

Thanks to technological advancements, the physical labor has been gradually replaced, which is quite evident from our sophisticated lifestyles. However, we are paying a high price for this comfortable, but sedentary lifestyle. As we spend about one-third of our time in offices in almost the same posture, it can lead to many health problems, such as diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, heart diseases and hypertension.

So, you need to make workplace exercises a part of your routine. These exercises are especially important if your work involves sitting in front of the computer for long hours. In case, you are not able to set aside time for exercise before or after work, then the only option for you is to do it while you are in your office. Here is the list of some workplace exercises.

Commute as much as you can

To start with, it’s a good idea to walk to your office. If it is too far from your home and you are commuting by bus, get off a few blocks away and walk the rest of the way. If you are driving to work, park at the far end of the parking lot or in the lot of a building nearby. And when you reach your office, take the stairs rather than the elevator.

Prefer standing, rather than sitting

Find the opportunities to stand, because that way you will burn more calories, than if you spend most of time sitting. Not only should you try more and more to stand while talking on phone, you should also try to get a standing desk, and spend some of your time there. And as far as possible, move around when you need to speak to your colleagues, rather than using emails and phones all the time.

Take fitness break

Every now and then when there is a moment to spare, step out of your office and take a brisk walk, you can take a brief rest to do some general stretching like face straight ahead, then lower your chin to your chest. Or, while standing, grab one of your ankles or your pant leg and bring it up toward your buttock. Try to do this for 15 to 30 seconds.

Keep fitness equipment at your work area

Lastly, have some fitness equipment at your work place like store resistance band, stretchy cords or tubes, you can also keep some hand weights in your drawer.