Sitting Does Not Mean No Exercise
By Tom Herrin
A lot of the time, when people work in jobs in which they spend many hours a day sitting, they get very little exercise. It is the consequence of the kind of world in which modern technology has placed so many. Operating a computer or communicating on some kind of telephone is part of many jobs. The downside is that, when people sit, they don't do much moving about. A good way to deal with such a sedentary lifestyle is to find a way to exercise while sitting in the chair. It is not as difficult as it sounds, and people may actually work some muscles that have not done much for a while.
It May Be Possible to Work the Hips
When people sit for considerable lengths of time, they tend to become stiff. The hips are designed for good movement. Staying in one place can be hard on them. There are some simple exercises that may be done while sitting that can keep those hips in better shape. For one exercise, a person should sit up straight and hold one leg a few inches above the floor. At the same time, they should bend the knee to a right angle. While still sitting, they hold the leg up as long as possible. The process is repeated with the other leg.
It Is Possible to Strengthen the Hands
An exercise that can help to work the hands is quite simple. Whether holding something or not, the fists can be squeezed and held for three to five seconds. It should then be released and the fingers spread wide. Doing this for five to 10 repetitions can be adequate, then doing the same with the other hand can balance the activity.
It Is Possible to Work the Abs
One of the more difficult areas to work in the body is the abdomen. It may be worked a little while sitting. An easy exercise is to take a breath through the nose while tightening the abs. It can be held for five to 10 seconds and then released. Repeating this for 12-15 times can provide a little bit of a workout. I have sometimes sat on the edge of a chair and sort of balanced myself. I have found that as I did this, I would wobble somewhat and it seemed to work the abs. When sitting for longs periods, it is a good idea to incorporate some kind of activity.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lone Tree, Colo.