The 5 minute Office Workout

Easy exercise routines you can fit into your schedule — even right at the office!

Working out is on everyone’s to do list in January but quite often it’s easier said then done, the classic “oh I will start tomorrow” starts creeping in and “it’s to cold” (my personal favourite). But when you can do an office work- out at your desk you can’t really be excused. It’s no secret how bad it is to sit at your desk for 8 hours a day, day in day out. With a few simple stretches at your desk can reduce your aches and pains and maybe ease the guilt of not going to the gym yesterday.

Neck: Close your eyes and let your chin drop to you chest. Begin circling your neck slowly. Drop your right ear to your right shoulder, and then your left ear to your left shoulder keeping your shoulders relaxed carry this out 5 time switching directions and repeating 5 times on the opposite side.

Shoulders: Shoulder shrugs- put your shoulders as high as you can, roll backwards and repeat 10 times then does the same rolling your shoulders forwards.

Wrist/Hands: Rolling your wrists every hour and half 10 times clockwise and anti clockwise can help prevent Carpel Tunnel Syndrome if you spend a lot of your day typing.

Back: The Cow Cat yoga pose’s improve extension and flexion in your back.This is also know as Marjarasana, and is also great at clearing emotional baggage.

Legs: Standing Thigh stretches — Stretch the front of your thigh by standing straight, placing one hand on your desk chair. Grab the ankle of one of your legs and bring it towards your bum. Remember to maintain an upright position keeping your legs close together and your back straight for 15- 30 seconds. Swapping legs after your 30 seconds.

As well as the classics:

Take the stairs instead of the elevator- Two stairs at a time, for a harder work out.

Good posture at your desk.

Swap your chair for an exercise ball.

Park 5 minutes away from your office so that you have to walk further.

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