If your job requires you to sit most of your day, you could be damaging your health. However, changes are coming to the work place and the sedentary work environment may be a thing of the past.
Businesses have started to see the benefits of having their employees use active work space tools. Here are five exercise devices that could replace the traditional office desk and each one has their own benefits.
Treadmill Desks: There are treadmill desks that you can sync to your computer such as the LifeSpan Treadmill Desk ($1,449). You can also try a standalone treadmill desk such as the LifeSpan Walking Treadmill Base ($999). You can use the treadmill desks throughout the day and alternate between walking, sitting and standing.
Standing desks: This is an affordable option to help you avoid sitting all day. The portable StockStand ($199) attaches to the back of your chair so you easily move it from a standing position to a sitting position. This option is nice because you can sit when you get tired of standing.
Under-the-Desk Ellipticals: You pedal while you work with these under-the-desk ellipticals. They are light and easily fit under your desk. You can change resistance and adjust your intensity as needed. Try Cubii ($349)
Bike Desks: Ride a stationary bike while working. There are lots of styles and prices including the DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike Pedal Excerciser ($159) or LifeSpan bike desks ($799)
Active Seats or Exercise Ball Chairs: Great for your posture and your core. The chairs are lightweight. Check out the Swooper Stool ($849) or the Exercise Ball, which come in a variety of styles and prices. Here’s the Gaiam Balance Ball Chair ($70)
These new options have created a lot of buzz. Remember, it’s important to not sit longer than 45 minutes at a stretch.
Other ways to stay active at work
Take the stairs
- I work on the sixth floor and I take the stairs once a day.
Leg Raises
- Get a secret leg workout in while sitting at your desk. While seated, straighten both legs and hold for five or more seconds. Then lower legs back to the ground and repeat for 15 reps.
Stretch your arms/shoulders
- Lift your shoulders toward your ears, hold for 5 or more seconds, then release and repeat 15 times.
- Sitting up straight, stretch your shoulders back so your shoulder blades are closer. Hold for five or more seconds and repeat for 15 reps.
Perfect Posture
- Adjust your chair to make your feet, hips and arms at 90-degree angles with the floor. This will ensure that you keep good posture throughout the day and will engage the core to make sure there is no slouching.
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