You Can Still Exercise While Sitting Long Hours
By Tom Herrin
Many people are in a work situation in which they spend the majority of their day sitting in a chair. It is the primary means many have for doing the work they have each day. So many people are using computers, or doing some other kind of desk work, that they are seldom able to get up and around. One of the obvious problems with sitting so much is that there is often little time for exercise. The fact is that with some good planning, people may be able to get a reasonable amount of exercise right in that chair.
It May Be Possible to Strengthen the Hands
While sitting at a desk chair, people can get pretty sluggish. A simple exercise can be to make a fist, with or without something in the hand. Squeezing tightly for three to five seconds then releasing and spreading fingers widely can get the blood flowing. Doing this for five or more repetitions can provide a little work for the hands and be a little bit of an eye-opener as well.
It May Work the Shoulders
Most people who sit for long hours in a chair find themselves with a stiff neck and shoulders. It can be pretty uncomfortable. Finding some way to get some exercise can make this a much more tolerable experience. An easy one can be to sit up in the chair and grab each side of it. By pulling on the chair as if they were trying to lift it, they can pull for around 10 seconds. Doing this for four to six repetitions can provide a decent amount of exercise and loosen those stiff muscles in and around the neck and shoulders.
It May Help to Work the Abs
Most of us struggle when trying to get any kind of workout for our abs. It can be pretty difficult. You may as well do something while sitting in a chair. A simple activity is to take a deep breath though the nose and tighten the abs while inhaling. Squeezing and holding for five to 10 seconds can be fairly effective. Letting go and trying it again 12 to 15 times may provide a little bit of a workout. You may be surprised at how much you can accomplish by doing this on a regular basis. Get a little creative and see how you can change your sitting routine to get just a bit more exercise. It can be a big help.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Redmond, Wash.