Simple Desk Exercises You Can Do Anytime, Anywhere!

If you’re reading this while sitting at your desk, stay where you are!

Here are some exercises that you can do because being stuck in a chair behind a desk for the most part of the day is no excuse for not taking good care of yourself.

Note that unless otherwise stated, you begin these exercises in a seated upright position and try not to slouch.

Heads will roll!

It’s actually for the neck but calling it the guillotine, is not an option.

Close your eyes and gently roll your head in a clockwise direction for five rotations. Repeat for the other direction. Remember to breathe normally while performing this simple exercise.

*Shrugs*

Shrugs are more commonly done with weights in hand, but you can also do them without.

With your arms hanging by your side, shrug or raise your shoulders towards your ears. Hold that position for a count of five. Bring your shoulders to their starting position and repeat, for a start, five times.

Note: Don’t be overly self-conscious when doing the exercises. They are good for you and might just inspire the person next to you.

Strike a pose

This stretching exercise is also known as the “Seated Crescent Moon Pose” amongst yoga practitioners.

Interlace your fingers and reach up with your palms facing the ceiling. Lean or bend gently to the right and hold that position for a count of five. Repeat with the other side.

Stationery curls

You don’t have to be in a gym to do biceps or forearms curls. You can substitute a dumbbell with a water bottle (which by the way you should have because hydration is important!) or any stationery and/or office supplies.

As you would with a dumbbell, do the curls slowly as this would be more effective than a quick burst. You can even do shoulder presses while you’re at it.

Time to get low

The lower body and limbs should not be excluded in any exercise routine. They are equally important, among other benefits, in promoting better circulation. Some simple exercises that you can do while sitting at your desk include:

• Toe wiggling
• Leg stretches
• Seated calf-raise and
• Gentle ankle rolls

You should also get up from your desk and take a walk every now and then – but save the pantry run for appropriate times, please. Taking a walk, whether it’s heading to the restroom or just around the office helps, not only for the body but the mind as well.

The ill-effects of being deskbound for a long period is well documented, so no matter how swamped you are with work – make time for your wellbeing!

Desk Exercises Workshop

To help you get started, sign up for our Desk Exercises Workshop today.

In this workshop, you will learn simple deskexercises to help you get through the workday more efficiently in both performance and wellbeing. Among others, you will learn how to improve your seated posture, which will help to minimise and prevent unnecessary discomfort and pain.

The Desk Exercises Workshop only takes up 30 to 40 minutes of your time. What you will learn will apply throughout your working life and beneficial on a general health level as well.

Let’s do this!