Day 177- Cubicle Workout

When I started about three and a half years ago at my current job, I had never had a desk job. My previous jobs all involved being on my feet, lots of walking, and even working out. I was shocked at how sitting at a desk for eight hours could leave my body so sore and exhausted. I figured that after a full day of sitting in front of the computer I would have tons of energy to burn working out once I got home. After the eight hours of computer time and then sitting in traffic on the way home, it was funny, but the only thing that I felt like doing was sitting in front of the TV and vegging out.

Now that I have had time to adapt to this new type of job, I strive to do little things during the day to break up the sitting. It helps that I am on the second floor of the building, so taking the stairs helps get a little bit of exercise throughout the day.

For those that want to spice up their work day a little more here are some exercises or things that you can do to get moving:

• Squats to your chair, try one leg at a time
• Tricep dips using your chair
• Jumping Jacks
• Push-ups against your desk
• Sit in a chair with your legs crossed, place hands on the armrests and raise yourself a few inches above the seat and hold for 20 seconds.
• Instead of instant messenger or email, walk to the person that you need to talk to
• Use half of your lunch to take a walk
• Join a local gym and go during your lunch to get a quick workout in
• Sit on an exercise ball instead of your desk chair
• Bring bands to work and use them while sitting at your desk

These are just a few suggestions, but get creative, do what works for your work situation and your comfort level. And since you are sitting in front of a computer anyways, there are plenty of websites were you can find additional cubicle workout ideas from. Trust me this break throughout your day will help to keep you energized and focused while you are sitting in front of your computer. It may even help to keep you motivated enough to continue the workout once you get home!

Pura Vida!

Alica Ryan, NTP