If you spend an average of 3 hours a day working on the computer, in one year's time, that would equal 1,095 hours of sitting. Whether you're checking your blog or emails, working or watching videos, you most like are sitting pretty still for that entire time, except for your fingers. How can you get the rest of your body actively engaged so that you can even lose weight when typing?
1. Set a timer to go off in 5 minute intervals. Every 5 minutes, get up and do 10 jumping jacks or 10 push-ups. You can do 10 of anything. Get creative, move around, and then right back to typing. You will feel re-energized. The physical movement will clear the cobwebs from your brain. Maybe the trend will catch on in the workplace!
2. Use a resistance band. Put a round resistance band around your ankles. As you type, move your legs out and in. You can keep your feet low or lift them parallel to the floor. If you sit in a cubicle, no one will ever see what you're doing and you'll be getting fit while you work. Shoot for 3 sets of 15 over the course of your computer time.
3. Stretch constantly. Being in the same position in front of the computer leads to stiffness and sore muscles. Try these easy stretches to help you relax:
Tilt your head to the right like you're trying to have your ear touch your shoulder. Switch sides.
Inhale deeply and shrug your shoulders and hold. Exhale slowly and relax your shoulders.
Reach your arms high in the air as if trying to touch the sky and hold.
Place your palms together chest high as if in prayer. Slowly push your palms together while lifting your elbows slightly. Hold for 5 seconds. Rotate your hands so your fingertips are pointing towards the ground. Hold for 5 seconds and release.
4. Stand up when reading. If you're reading a long email or article, stand up. Enjoy a different posture and sit down when you're done. Stand up again when you hit another long passage to read. Stand up as often as possible.
5. Sit on an exercise ball instead of a chair. Sitting on the ball will improve your posture at the computer. It will also strengthen your abs and back without even trying.
Practice these five tips when you're sitting on the computer. Hey, you can get started right now!
Arlene Pellicane, mother of a toddler and infant, helps women lose their baby weight and thrive as wives and mothers. Her weekly podcast "Losing Weight After Baby" is full of practical ideas that work for busy moms. Visit Arlene's website for free articles and exercises at http://www.losingweightafterbaby.com
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