We lead sedentary lifestyles – most of us, sitting hunched before our computer screen for long hours. It invariably affects our mental and physical health adversely. One of the major problems that the modern lifestyle brings with it is this sedentary style of living and working. We seldom spend much time in open spaces outside, and setting aside time for exercise has become a difficult thing to factor into the average day. Sitting for too long can be dangerous for the body because it creates a low metabolism, and also does not let you burn enough calories to last you good health.
Here are some sure shot ways to capture a few moments of exercise during your day, regardless of whether you are at home or at work. Here is a glimpse at a few ways to do just that.
– Take a brisk walk every now and then, no matter the distance. There are plenty of instances where you take a break while at work, to perhaps grab some coffee or to just munch a snack in the cafeteria. Instead of looking for a snack, a better alternative for you would be to take a nice, brisk walk and return to your desk. The burst of adrenaline and the exposure to the spaces outside the confines of your workstation can make you a whole lot more productive and your body on active mode.
– Jog on the spot, getting up every now and then Sure, it probably sounds like a random activity to throw into your workday, but if you get off your desk and run on the spot for a good minute’s worth every few hours, you give your body a burst of energy, and helps circulation, which keeps you mentally and physically active. The exercise is a perfect way to give your body a cardio boost, and engage your body in entirety.
– If you are inclined to doing this, enjoy a bunch of jumping jacks to work out in the course of your day. The fun part is that you can even do it sitting down! Sit down with your back straight and your knees bent and legs together with your toes touching the floor lightly. Quickly, open your legs and flex your feet and land on your heels with your arms touching overhead, and then return to the start position. Try to do this as fast as you can so your body begins to gain from the exercise.
– Make sure to include the regular activities of bending, stretching, squatting and reaching in your everyday activities. This will help keep your body flexible, supple and the blood in circulation.
– Knee lifts and leg lifts help to tone your quadriceps, inner thighs and abs. Sit on the edge of the chair, extend your leg out straight with the other foot on the floor, and then switch. Another variation is to bend your leg and lift the knees up in alternation.
References:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/Heres-how-sitting-harms-your-body/articleshow/46904613.cms
http://www.grandparents.com/health-and-wellbeing/exercise-and-de-stress/chair-exercises
http://www.wikihow.com/Exercise-While-Sitting-at-Your-Computer

Picture Courtesy : workandbull.com