Sitting at a desk all day can be detrimental to our heart health, but what if we could incorporate heart-pumping workouts into our workday? With a standing desk, it's possible to do just that!
A standing desk allows you to switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the day, and it also provides an opportunity to incorporate some heart-healthy exercises into your workday routine. Here are a few exercises you can try while standing at your standing desk:
- Leg raises: This exercise works your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Stand behind your desk, holding onto the edge for support if needed. Slowly raise one leg behind you, keeping your knee straight. Lower it back down and repeat on the other side. Aim for 10-12 reps on each side.
- Shoulder press: This exercise works your shoulders and triceps. Stand behind your desk, holding onto the edge for support if needed. Hold a water bottle or small weight in each hand, with your palms facing forward. Slowly lift the weights up to shoulder level, then lower them back down. Aim for 10-12 reps.
- Desk push-ups: This exercise works your chest, shoulders, and triceps. Place your hands on the edge of your desk, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Slowly lower your body down, keeping your back straight. Push back up to the starting position. Aim for 10-12 reps.
- Desk dips: This exercise works your triceps. Stand behind your desk, holding onto the edge for support if needed. Place your hands on the edge of your desk, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Lower your body down, keeping your back straight. Push back up to the starting position. Aim for 10-12 reps.
- Desk step-ups: This exercise works your legs and glutes. Place a sturdy box or step stool in front of your desk. Step up onto it with one foot, then step back down with the same foot. Repeat on the other side. Aim for 10-12 reps on each side.
It's important to note that it's best to consult with a medical professional or a certified personal trainer before starting any new workout routine, especially if you have any health conditions or concerns. Also, it's important to use proper form and not to overdo it, you can start with small sets and gradually increase the reps.
Incorporating these exercises into your workday routine can help to improve your heart health, increase your energy levels, and boost your mood. So, let's all make use of our standing desks and incorporate heart-pumping workouts into our workday.