Your desk chair has held you up through the years and has become a common staple in your work life existence. However, an item you had thought to be your best friend is in reality your worst enemy! Research suggests that the recommended 30 minutes of cardio five times per week may not undo the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle. According to the CDC, regular physical activity is one of the most effective disease prevention behaviors. Physical activity programs:
- Reduce feelings of depression
- Improve stamina and strength
- Reduce obesity, particularly when combined with diet
- Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease (e.g., high blood pressure and cholesterol, stroke, and type 2 diabetes)
One of the best options, in the words of author Emily Milam, is Deskercise! Simple activities like parking in the farthest parking spot, taking the stairs, and even jogging in place at your desk can revitalize the mind and increase much needed blood flow. The Huffington post credits two easy and effective deskercises: leg extensions and upright crunches. While seated in your chair, lift your feet off the floor until your knees are completely straight and muscles contracted. For the upright crunch, keep your back straight, lift your knees above the chair, and hold them there until your contracted abdominal muscles can’t take any more.At the Primary Health Network, we are extremely proud of our exercise services at our local Complementary Medicine location and the outstanding results many patients have experienced. For more information on our classes, please visit primary-health.net or call 1-866-276-7018.Happy Deskercising!